Assessments of patients’ pain, nutrition and skin in clinical practice: Registered and enrolled nurses’ perceptions

Abstract 

Aim

The aim of the study was to describe registered and enrolled nurses’ perceptions of how they assess patients’ pain, nutrition and skin.

Introduction

Planning for pain, nutrition and skin care management is an essential part of nursing. In Sweden, it is common that registered and enrolled nurses work together in the care of patients.

Method

Interviews with nine registered and nine enrolled nurses were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

Results

One theme; blurring boundaries between registered and enrolled nurses regarding pain, nutrition and skin suit assessments was identified. The manifest content of interviews is described in four categories: nurse–patient interaction, using oneself as a tool, collaborating with colleagues and listening to patients’ next of kin.

Conclusion

The analysis showed a blurring of boundaries between RNs and ENs regarding pain, nutrition and skin suit assessments. How they perform their assessments conforms to a large extent. However, even if the activities are the same, the education levels of RNs and ENs are different and therefore the assessment of the patients might be different in clinical practice. Taking the results into account it is important that RNs and ENs collaborate regarding assessment of the patients’ pain, nutrition and skin suit.

Keywords: Registered nurses, Enrolled nurses, Perception, Assessment, Pain, Nutrition, Skin, Pressure, Ulcer