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This multi-site evaluative study is the result of work commissioned by a number of National Health Service (NHS) Trusts to evaluate the impact of the nurse consultant role. It explored the views of both stakeholders and nurse consultants and was conducted by Northumbria, Teesside and Bournemouth Universities and a number of their affiliated NHS Trusts. The evaluation was based on the '360 degree feedback process' and used case study methodology, inviting stakeholders or key informants, including clinical and academic colleagues, students and managers, to provide information on their work with the nurse consultants. The findings are discussed around the themes of (1) role aspirations and lived reality, (2) challenging boundaries, (3) impact and outcomes and (4) leadership. The findings concur with previous studies demonstrating a series of common themes associated with leadership, clinical expertise, research and educational activity. Importantly, these findings articulate the ways in which nurse consultants are working to develop unique services to meet patient needs.Background

Maintaining oral health is an essential aspect of patient care. Good oral hygiene can reduce the risk of infection and improve patients' quality of life. This article provides an overview of oral care to enable nurses to undertake assessment of the mouth and deliver appropriate care as part of the patient's hygiene routine.

This article outlines the process of taking a history from a patient, including preparing the environment, communication skills and the importance of order. The rationale for taking a comprehensive history is also explained.