Meta-Analysis of Cultural Influences in Trauma Exposure and PTSD Prevalence Rates.

Introduction: The global prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) continues to rise, the influence of culture and resilience remains unclear. This review and meta-analysis aimed to (a) examine the prevalence of PTSD among studies addressing culture and resilience, and (b) compare the PTSD prevalence rates across different trauma exposures and cultural contexts.

Methodology: PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO were searched for articles published between 01/01/2000 to 12/01/019 that defined PTSD, reported PTSD prevalence rates, and addressed culture and resilience.

A systematic review of the prevalence of signs of impending death and symptoms in the last 2 weeks of life.

To optimally manage patient care, knowledge of the prevalence of signs of impending death and common symptoms in the last days is needed. Two reviewers independently conducted searches of PubMed, CINAHL, PsychINFO and the Web of Knowledge from January, 1996 to May, 2012. No limits to publication language or patient diagnosis were imposed.

Current practices for withdrawal of life support in intensive care units.

Background: Nurses are present at the bedside of patients undergoing withdrawal of life support more often than any other member of the health care team, yet most publications on this topic are directed at physicians.

Objectives: To describe the training, guidance, and support related to withdrawal of life support received by nurses in intensive care units in the United States, how the nurses participated, and how the withdrawal of life support occurred.

Methods: A questionnaire about withdrawal of life support was sent to 1000 randomly selected members of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, with 2 follow-up mailings.