This descriptive correlation study examined the satisfaction levels of urgent and nonurgent patients in relation to nursing care, the emergency department (ED) environment, ancillary services, and information received. The sample consisted of 28 subjects, with the majority of patients being very satisfied with nursing care. The primary area of concern was information about the length of waiting time. The satisfaction levels of ED patients with the care they receive has become increasingly important in today's health care environment. ED nurses play an important role in ensuring that patients are satisfied and receive quality care.

Background: RNs in North Carolina were surveyed to determine their current knowledge and to determine if educational preparation, practice setting, or clinical specialty influenced their knowledge levels and attitudes. Method: A stratified random sample of 1,000 practicing RNs in North Carolina were surveyed using the Nurses' Knowledge and Attitudes Survey Instrument developed by McCaffery and Ferrell. Results: The mean score was 64.58 based on the percentage of correct responses from the 260 subjects who participated. No statistically significant difference was found in scores based on educational preparation, practice setting, or clinical specialty. Conclusion: The findings of this study support the concern of inadequate knowledge and inappropriate attitudes regarding pain management. It reveals the need for intensive continuing education and staff development.

The purpose of this quasi-experimental study was to determine the effects of a nurse-directed self-management program on dyspnea and self-efficacy levels in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The Health Belief Model and the Theory of Self-Efficacy provided the theoretical framework for the study. The sample included 10 COPD patients from rural North Carolina who attended a 6-week nurse-directed self-management program. Dyspnea and self-efficacy were measured before and after the program by using a vertical visual analogue scale for dyspnea and the COPD Self-Efficacy Scale. A single-group quasi-experimental design that incorporated a pretest and a posttest was used. Paired t tests were used to compare the pretest and the posttest levels of dyspnea and self-efficacy. The findings revealed no significant change in levels of dyspnea after the program. Levels of self-efficacy, however, were found to have increased at a statistically significant level (p < .001) following the program. This study indicates that using a group teaching method to teach self-management skills improved self-efficacy levels.