Marilyn Hockenberry-Eaton

Developing a conceptual model for fatigue in children

The purpose of this research study was to define fatigue experienced by children with cancer and to begin development of a conceptual model.Two major Paediatric Cancer Centers in the Southern USA participated in this study. Children who participated in this study were in the out-patient clinic or in the hospital. Five focus groups with a total of 14 children between 7 and 12 years-of-age were held over a 2-month period of time. Focus groups were used to first assess the contextual understanding and essential attributes of fatigue in 7 to 12-year-old children. Each focus group session lasted 30 to 45 minutes, was audiotaped and transcribed verbatim.A team of four researchers used content analysis to evaluate the transcripts. Codes and definitions were developed for the characteristics of fatigue, causes of fatigue and what alleviates fatigue. Concept analysis was completed as a basis for developing the conceptual framework. Eight codes emerged to define fatigue. Seven codes were used to describe the causes of fatigue.An additional three codes were used to describe what alleviated fatigue.A conceptual definition for fatigue experienced by children with cancer emerged from the data, and a conceptual model was developed to demonstrate relationships between fatigue and contributory and alleviating factors.The conceptual work for model development contributes to understanding fatigue in children with cancer and serves as a basis for establishing operational definitions

Establishing an independent practice

Establishing a successful private nursing practice is a major undertaking, which requires much preparation, planning, hard work, and perseverance. The first step is to find your niche. As a nurse entrepreneur, you are competing with physicians, nurses, and other professionals in the private practice “jungle” or the real world of business. What service can you perform that you enjoy and that someone else is not already performing in your target area? Realistically explore your goals, special skills, expertise, knowledge, and weaknesses. Talk to colleagues inside and outside nursing as well as potential clients about your ideas. Do a market study to see whether enough interest exists in your practice area. Pilot your service with a few clients to test its feasibility. Then, decide how much time, energy, and money you are willing or able to invest in your practice. Honestly answer the following questions: