@article{ref1,
title="Evaluation of the effect of practice nurses on the management of depression",
journal="Primary Care Mental Health",
year="2006",
author="Scanlan, M. and Smart, D. and Gregory, S. and Armstrong, E. and Parkes, J.",
volume="4",
number="2",
pages="107-112",
abstract="BACKGROUND: In this study practice nurses with limited training provided care using a chronic disease management model. <br><br>AIM: To evaluate the impact of these nurses on the care of patients. Setting: Two group practices in the Midlands of England. <br><br>METHOD: The study used both qualitative and quantitative methods. For the qualitative study, the experiences of patients were examined using questionnaires and structured interviews. The experience of the nurses and the primary care teams was assessed using audio diaries and focus groups. For the quantitative study, a group of patients with depression cared for prior to the provision of the practice nurses was compared with a group of patients cared for after the practice nurses were in operation. Measures including the nature of assessment and adherence to prescribed medication were identified from clinical records for both groups of patients. <br><br>RESULTS: Patients valued the time and non-medical role of the nurses. The nurses greatly valued training and supervision. Acceptance of the role seemed to be better where there was already an integrated nursing team. The introduction of this role led to improved recording and to a limited improvement in measures of adherence to prescribed medication. <br><br>CONCLUSIONS: This study supports the view that practice nurses can improve the patient experience and aspects of care for patients with depression in a primary care setting. The effectiveness and viability of the role may be enhanced when the nurse works in an integrated manner using a structured approach. © 2006 Radcliffe Publishing.<p /><p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="1476-4717",
doi="",
url="http://dx.doi.org/"
}