{"title":"The value of intuition in selecting debridement aids for the removal of hyperkeratosis: an introspective study.","authors":"Fania Pagnamenta, Sophie Robson, Linda Mason","doi":"10.12968/bjcn.2025.0212","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12968/bjcn.2025.0212","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Effective leg ulcer care includes the removal of hyperkeratosis, a thick, adherent layer of dead skin. In the UK, available methods to remove hyperkeratosis include debridement pads, pre-impregnated cloths and tenotomes. However, evidence supporting their efficacy remains limited.</p><p><strong>Aims: </strong>This study aimed to explore how expert clinical intuition can inform a protocol to guide less-experienced nurses in selecting appropriate methods for hyperkeratosis debridement.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Drawing on Benner's 'novice to expert' model, three highly experienced nurses observed each other's practice while debriding hyperkeratosis in leg ulcer patients. Standard of care was maintained throughout.</p><p><strong>Findings: </strong>Tenotomes were consistently the most effective, removing adherent scales efficiently. Debridement pads removed only loose debris, while pre-impregnated cloths were ineffective for stubborn scales but useful for rehydration post-tenotome use.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>A simple protocol recommending tenotomes for hyperkeratosis removal was developed. Further research is needed to evaluate its implementation in clinical practice.</p><p><strong>Implications for practice: </strong>The protocol offers practical guidance for selecting hyperkeratosis debridement methods and may support more consistent leg ulcer care.</p>","PeriodicalId":35731,"journal":{"name":"British Journal of Community Nursing","volume":"31 Sup9","pages":"S30-S36"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-09-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148881984","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Developing the role of the tissue viability nurse - a workforce perspective.","authors":"Tanya Haines","doi":"10.12968/bjcn.2025.0191","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12968/bjcn.2025.0191","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This article explores existing literature for clarity and insights regarding the tissue viability nurse role. This review was prompted by the author's curiosity and questions about clinical development pathways as there is ambiguity about the role and varying opinions about the clinical activities that should be undertaken by tissue viability nurses. The article reviews the role, value and impact of tissue viability nurses on patient outcomes, as well as on national service provision. The review further discusses some of the limitations and issues the specialism faces and potential new opportunities for service development as the NHS fit for the future plan is implemented.</p>","PeriodicalId":35731,"journal":{"name":"British Journal of Community Nursing","volume":"31 Sup9","pages":"S16-S22"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-09-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148881894","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"From hospital to community: the growing burden of wound care.","authors":"Samantha Holloway","doi":"10.12968/bjcn.2026.0123","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12968/bjcn.2026.0123","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":35731,"journal":{"name":"British Journal of Community Nursing","volume":"31 Sup9","pages":"S5"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-09-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148881974","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Evidence-based guidance for community management of lower limb haematomas in the absence of national standards.","authors":"Christina Hayward","doi":"10.12968/bjcn.2025.0043","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12968/bjcn.2025.0043","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Haematoma management in community settings presents a clinical challenge because of the absence of standardised national guidance. Haematomas, defined as localised collections of clotted or partially clotted blood within tissues, can result in complications such as skin necrosis, infection and delayed healing if not managed appropriately. This article outlines the assessment and management of closed, open-bleeding and open-clotted haematomas, with emphasis on timely escalation and risk identification, based on the haematoma clinical decision guide designed by the author to address hesitation and poor confidence among nurses in dealing with haematomas in the community. The importance of holistic assessment is highlighted, including comorbidities, coagulation status and recognition of complications such as compartment syndrome. Particular consideration is given to lower limb haematomas, where vascular assessment is essential before initiating compression therapy. Appropriate debridement options for community practice such as autolytic, mechanical and biological are discussed. This approach aims to improve clinical decision making and optimise patient outcomes.</p>","PeriodicalId":35731,"journal":{"name":"British Journal of Community Nursing","volume":"31 Sup9","pages":"S6-S14"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-09-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148882056","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Insect bite leading to a leg ulcer: a patient's story.","authors":"Sylvie Hampton","doi":"10.12968/bjcn.2026.0129","DOIUrl":"10.12968/bjcn.2026.0129","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The patient, John, is a 94-year-old man with mild mobility issues but is otherwise fit and active. He developed a trauma-related ulcer, likely originating from an insect bite, that is now almost fully closed following treatment with compression hosiery. This case study discusses the symptoms, assessment, diagnosis, treatment plan and the outcomes resulting from timely and appropriate nursing interventions.</p>","PeriodicalId":35731,"journal":{"name":"British Journal of Community Nursing","volume":"31 Sup9","pages":"S40-S42"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-09-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148881980","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"The human side of healthcare.","authors":"Dion Smyth","doi":"10.12968/bjcn.2026.0126","DOIUrl":"10.12968/bjcn.2026.0126","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The article discusses the importance of authentic engagement in palliative care and how acknowledging the patients' and carers' experiences and feelings can help to deliver meaningful care.</p>","PeriodicalId":35731,"journal":{"name":"British Journal of Community Nursing","volume":"31 8","pages":"405"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-08-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148621074","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Menopause in the workplace.","authors":"Ian Peate","doi":"10.12968/bjcn.2026.0128","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12968/bjcn.2026.0128","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Menopause is an increasingly recognised workplace health issue with significant implications for nursing practice, workforce retention and employee wellbeing. Symptoms associated with menopause can impact performance, confidence and attendance. Menopause remains under-discussed, often shaped by stigma and limited organisational support. This article explores the impact of menopause within healthcare settings, highlighting the role of nurses in fostering inclusive and supportive environments. It examines current policy drivers and considers practical approaches such as workplace adjustments, competent and compassionate leadership and health education. Promoting awareness and normalising conversations around menopause are essential to improving staff experience, reducing inequalities and sustaining a resilient nursing workforce.</p>","PeriodicalId":35731,"journal":{"name":"British Journal of Community Nursing","volume":"31 8","pages":"393-395"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-08-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148620987","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Future standards for registered nurses.","authors":"Patricia Robinson","doi":"10.12968/bjcn.2026.0096","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12968/bjcn.2026.0096","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":35731,"journal":{"name":"British Journal of Community Nursing","volume":"31 8","pages":"361-362"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-08-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148621016","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Assessment for prevention and holistic treatment of pressure ulcers in community settings.","authors":"Linda Nazarko","doi":"10.12968/bjcn.2026.0116","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12968/bjcn.2026.0116","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Around 180 000 people acquire pressure ulcers each year. Many fail to heal within a year and approximately 700 000 people in the UK are living with pressure ulcers. This article explores the reasons why pressure ulcers fail to heal, as well as the importance of pressure ulcer risk assessment and an evidence-based holistic approach to management and treatment of pressure ulcers.</p>","PeriodicalId":35731,"journal":{"name":"British Journal of Community Nursing","volume":"31 8","pages":"368-372"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-08-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148620951","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Empowering final-year student nurses through autonomous practice in district and community nursing placements.","authors":"Amanda Secular, Alexandra Bartlett","doi":"10.12968/bjcn.2025.0222","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12968/bjcn.2025.0222","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Final-year student nurses were offered aspirant nurse roles to support busy clinical teams within district nursing services as part of the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Student nurses in their final year of training had the opportunity to work as an aspirant nurse (paid band 4 position) for a 12-week period, as per the emergency education standards delivered by the Nursing and Midwifery Council in an effort to help out during the pandemic. This gave the students additional responsibilities to allow them to work autonomously but still under the supervision of the registered nurse. This role was separate to their student nurse role, becoming part of the clinical team where they were placed. Building on this concept, a collaboration between higher education institutions and the Essex Partnership University Trust resulted in the development of a structured pilot student autonomous visit programme, at the time referred to as non-direct supervision students. This initiative aimed at improving student learning and enhancing professional identity and confidence, while addressing challenges in recruitment and retention in community nursing roles. This article outlines the development and implementation of the pilot programme, evaluates its impact and discusses its implications for nurse education and workforce planning. Results indicate enhanced student preparedness and improved staff retention in district nursing, strengthening interprofessional collaboration between universities and NHS teams.</p>","PeriodicalId":35731,"journal":{"name":"British Journal of Community Nursing","volume":"31 8","pages":"378-384"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-08-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148620873","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}