Several diseases and operations may necessitate the formation of a stoma. Patients may be concerned about the effect of the stoma on their ability to carry out activities of daily living, as well as quality of life. Nurses who may be involved in the care of patients with a stoma should have an understanding of the reasons for stoma formation, and the types of stoma and appliances available, to educate and support patients, and allay any concerns. Issues related to diet, sexual relationships and self-image are also discussed briefly.

Clinical research in the early acute phase of stroke is inherently complex, but is crucial to improve diagnosis, treatment and care of patients. This article explores the challenges faced by nurses in determining the eligibility of patients who have experienced stroke and obtaining informed consent from patients for inclusion in a clinical research study. It highlights the role of clinical nurses in ensuring patients and their representatives are offered opportunities to participate in research and are supported.In addition, the article illustrates how clinical and research staff jointly assure the safety of patients and the integrity of the research data. Examples of how acute stroke studies provide an opportunity to embed research into everyday nursing practice, thereby enabling nurses to advocate for quality evidence-based patient care, are illustrated.

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBT) individuals have particular vulnerabilities to sexually transmitted infections and HIV infection. Globally, reasons for this include physiological factors, discrimination and poor understanding of their sexual health needs. In many countries LGBT individuals are not able to exercise fully their rights to health care. This raises public health concerns for the LGBT community and the wider population. This article explores these issues, and makes recommendations for the healthcare profession to address health inequalities and promote improved health outcomes for LGBT populations. This article aims to promote an evidence-based approach that focuses on rights and public health issues.

Community matrons have complex caseloads and often work in isolation, supporting patients with chronic illness to stay out of hospital. In south London a community matrons network is helping senior nurses to establish links with one another, keep up to date and tackle variations in the quality of care they deliver to patients.

A project in Hull is going the extra mile to meet men's health needs. Men Need Sheds provides weekly meetings for older men with mild to moderate mental health needs at a shed on an allotment. Here they can socialise, relax and work together on practical projects.