Seroepidemiology and phylogenetic characterisation of measles virus in Ireland, 2004-2013.

Background: Ireland is classified as an area of high measles incidence. A World Health Organisation-European Region strategic plan exists for measles elimination by 2015.

Objectives: To retrospectively investigate measles outbreaks using all patient samples (sera and oral fluid) received for measles laboratory diagnosis and characterise the genetic diversity of circulating measles genotypes in Ireland.

The perception of ward-based nurses seconded into an Outreach Service.

A group of ward nurses were seconded into an Outreach Service for a 2-week period. Following this, the group took part in an evaluation of the placement using a focus group methodology. The aim of this project was to explore the perceptions of a ward-based nurse recruited into the Outreach Service so that they could function effectively and efficiently in that role.

Implementing a critical care course for ward nurses.

This article describes the setting up and evaluation of a course for ward-based nurses, which is designed to improve their skills in caring for highly dependent patients. The authors suggest such courses can increase nurses' confidence and competence and, as well as enhancing care, can improve communication with senior staff about issues of concern.

Why nurses choose not to undertake clinical supervision--the findings from one ICU.

A two-year action research study explored the implementation of clinical supervision in an intensive care unit (ICU). This paper focuses on one aspect of that study--the lack of uptake of clinical supervision. The themes that emerged from interview data focused on: resources, the purpose of clinical supervision, having good enough support elsewhere and personal issues.