Nursing research
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One of the main problems in conducting clinical trials is low participation rate due to potential participants' misunderstanding of the rationale for the clinical trial or perceptions of loss of control over treatment decisions. ⋯ Participation rates could be enhanced in future clinical trials by using a visual presentation to explain and describe the study as part of the informed consent process. More research is needed to test alternate methods of obtaining informed consent.
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Western research studies have found that sleep disturbances reduced quality of life and daily functioning of patients with heart failure; however, information about sleep disturbance is lacking in Taiwanese people with heart failure. ⋯ The importance of ongoing screening for sleep disturbances in people with heart failure is highlighted based on the study findings about the prevalence of sleep disturbances among the participants in this study. Healthcare providers must understand the often multifactorial nature of sleep disturbances to achieve a better and more effective management.
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In the absence of an instrument to predict risk of early readmission, examination of the well-validated probability of repeated admission (Pra) for this new purpose is indicated. ⋯ Within this heterogeneous sample, prediction of readmission using the Pra was better than chance. These findings may facilitate development of a better predictive model by combining select Pra variables with other variables associated with early readmission.
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The incidence rate of breast cancer is rising rapidly in Hong Kong. Lymphedema is a serious long-term complication of breast cancer surgery and radiation therapy. ⋯ Previous inflammation-infection and advanced age at axillary dissection are risk factors associated with the initiation of lymphedema. Previous inflammation-infection, operation on the side of the dominant hand, obesity, and aging are potential risk factors associated with the aggravation of lymphedema. Greater BMI is still a risk factor for lymphedema progression even in a lower BMI population.