Ann R Coll Surg Engl 2006; 88: 275-279 275Rubber band ligation (RBL) is the most commonly performed out-patient treatment for symptomatic haemorrhoids and provides a cure for the majority of patients.1 In about 30% of patients for whom initial RBL is unsuccessful, the treatment may be repeated, resulting in a long-term success rate of approximately 80%.2 The base of the haemorrhoid is visualised by anoscopy and controlled by either a suction device or forceps. A band is then applied to the base of the haemorrhoid, leading to necrosis and sloughing of the haemorrhoidal tissue. The commonest complications of RBL are pain and rectal bleeding; however, the reported incidence of these varies considerably. 2-4Vaso-vagal symptoms, urinary dysfunction, haemorrhoid thrombosis, mucosal ulceration and septic complications may also occur. We conducted a prospective audit of patient outcomes and satisfaction in the first week following RBL of symptomatic haemorrhoids. This is the first report to address these issues specifically, and will allow more accurate counselling of patients undergoing the procedure. Patients and MethodsOver a 10-month study period, all patients undergoing RBL for symptomatic haemorrhoids were invited to participate in the study. The total number of patients eligible was 183. Treatment was performed on an out-patient basis at our institution and at the local community hospital. All patients were referred to colorectal surgical clinics, and the procedures were performed by all grades of surgeon (SHO, SpR, staff grade and consultant) and nurse practitioner. Prior to the procedure, informed consent was obtained

Biologically, a child is a human being between the stages of birth and puberty. The legal definition of child generally refers to a minor, otherwise known as a person younger than the age of majority (Oxford University Press (Accessed 5th January 2013)). The ability to cure children with cancer has radically improved over the recent decades. Today, more than 80% of children with cancer are cured of their disease (Franklin 2014). This incredible achievement is one of the greatest triumphs in the history of medicine and is the result of numerous factors, including developments in paediatric haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Treatment advances for the sick child have been accomplished in various cancer treatments including chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy and HSCT. Whilst these therapies have vastly improved outcomes in childhood cancers, there remains scope for further improvement. Keywords HSCT • Paediatric 8.1.1 The Role of EBMT in Paediatric HSCT Changes in HSCT approaches are responsible for progress in this particular area. The role and status of transplantation have evolved. It is no longer considered a salvage therapy for patients in desperate circumstances but is now the treatment of choice for many diseases. The history of paediatric HSCT in Europe began in Poland in 1949 (Raszek-Rosenbusch), with therapeutic transfusion of bone marrow in children with leukaemia and other blood diseases. Subsequent developments in paediatric HSCT were driven on by the creation in 1974, of

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Patient engagement has gained increasing attention in cancer care as it is widely acknowledged as an essential element of high-quality care. There are limited data on how oncology nurses might apply techniques that encourage patient engagement. Therefore, this study aims to understand which nursing strategies can favour patient engagement in oncological care from patients’ and nurses’ perspectives. We conducted a qualitative study involving oncology patients and oncology nurses. Patients were interviewed, while nurses were involved in focus groups (FGs). Both interviews and FGs were analysed by the means of thematic analysis. We interviewed six patients and conducted two FGs, involving 17 nurses. Five themes were identified from patients’ interviews: effective information, having the opportunity to choose, being considered a person, trusted relationship with nurses, and receiving support and advice. Additionally, five themes were identified from the FGs: the nurse–patient relationship, personalisation of care, information style, engagement strategies, and the team. The participants highlighted the importance of comprehensive information in order for patients to feel more involved. Great importance was given to the nurse–patient relationship, which must be based on trust and mutual respect. Both nurses and patients emphasised the importance of person-centred care. A more systematic implementation of suggestions from the participants in this study is desirable for the future.