Nursing Standard (Nursing Standard)

Member Name: ickleannie

Product:	Nursing Standard
Date:	23/01/09 (138 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Cheap. Good Source Of Information

Disadvantages: None

Introduction

As a professional nurse it is imperative to keep up to date with all the latest changes in an extremely fast-paced and constantly changing clinical setting (ward environment). With advances in research, technology and new practice techniques implemented regularly. A nursing journal can be a vital source of up-to-date topical information, that can serve as a useful reference aid. While undergoing my training I was unsure of which of the many nursing publications to choose from. I was however highly recommended the Nursing Standard by both registered nurses and course tutors and have continued my subscription to this day.

Who Is It For

Owned by nurses and run by nurses. Nursing Standard is the best selling journal in the United Kingdom. Its primary readers are Student Nurses, Registered Nurses and Healthcare Assistants who practice in the field of general adult nursing. It would however also be of interest to anyone who has an interest in this field.

What's In It

Packed with a variety of features it allows nurses to keep up to speed with the latest clinical advances in their specialist chosen fields. This facilitates the development of best practice and ensures that they are up to speed with current clinical guidelines and protocols. A necessity highlighted by the Nursing and midwifery council (NMC) code of conduct. There are a variety of sections within this publication which are always informative and interesting. (forgive me I love being a nurse so am probably very biased in my opinions). There is always something new to learn and you are guaranteed to read what that is first hand in the Nursing Standard.

The news and analysis section keeps readers up-to-date with all the latest political goings on and any specific articles relating to the debates and life issues of the day. The reflection and letters features examine various topics and opinions where readers can write in and have their say on subjects that really matter to them or provide their own views on current issues. ( a bit like a problem page although I don't think I would be thanked for calling it such).This is particularly interesting as a practicing nurse as several of the issues identified are highlighted or discussed daily in the clinical setting. What's interesting here is that letters are often published from the families of patients who praise or are enraged by the care that they have received while in hospital. This is a potent reminder to all of us that it is a vocation and not just a job. As the patients advocates it is important to provide the best standard of care at all times!!!!
The art and science essays within are academic articles or published research findings on various topics and studies aimed at increasing knowledge base, and providing evidence for best practice. The learning zone focuses on professional development and portfolio management. This incorporates updated information relevant to practice which concerns things like the recent changes to the NMC code of professional conduct and updated protocols for administering Cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to name but a few. There is also useful input here from student nurses relating to their practice placements and how they have turned their experiences into positive learning tools providing a focus for reflection for future practice.
A useful section is concerned with career development which provides sound information around student grants and bursaries, information about student loans and further development and training courses for already trained staff. It also provides a useful section on student life. Finally there is a large general careers category which lists current vacancies.

Good Points

Nursing Standard is so confident that subscribers will enjoy their journal that they offer a full money back guarantee if readers are not satisfied with the product within four weeks of receiving the first issue. (Trust me you will not consider this option). It is packed full of interesting and up-to-date articles. Written by nurses so reflects the opinions of the profession as a whole not just by some random who has interviewed a couple of people and thinks they speak for the profession as a whole. Every edition is produced in full-colour. Good value for money. (Particularly as a student editions are heavily discounted). An added bonus is that it has its own website where you can have the option of reading a digital version instead of receiving paper copies. There is also access to archive issues here if you have a subscription. Arrives every second Wednesday on the dot. The best bit the freebies that are supplied with it on occasion. Diaries etc. (Well we all love something for nothing).

Disadvantages

Loads of adverts, More focus on the Scottish nursing system would be beneficial. Arrives every two weeks and if you are busy you could get a bit of a backlog (just being picky). As a reference tool not suitable for more advanced academic writing.

Overall Rating

5 out of 5 would highly recommend this journal. Love it.

Summary: Written By Nurses For Nurses