Deep brain stimulation has been used in the treatment of movement disorders for more than 30 years. Most published literature focuses on surgical techniques, therapeutic paradigms, and clinical outcomes, whereas less attention has been paid to the multidisciplinary roles required to deliver a deep brain stimulation service and their impact on treatment success. This review examines the role of the Deep Brain Stimulation Clinical Nurse Specialist and Advanced Nurse Practitioner and their contribution to patient experience and clinical outcomes. The article provides an overview of the relationship between the Deep Brain Stimulation Clinical Nurse Specialist/Advanced Nurse Practitioner and the patient, from initial selection, through surgery and postoperative recovery, to long-term follow-up. It also discusses the involvement of these nurses at each stage of care and their role in coordination, education, support, and therapy management. The roles of the Deep Brain Stimulation Clinical Nurse Specialist and Advanced Nurse Practitioner are evolving and require advanced clinical expertise, autonomous practice, research involvement, education, and patient advocacy. These roles are essential within the multidisciplinary team and may contribute to improved patient care and outcomes. (JNNN 2026;15(1):29–35)
With the global increase in the elderly population, the prevalence of chronic diseases is also rising, requiring healthcare systems to focus more intensively on the long-term care needs of older adults. Self-care behaviors play a central role in the health management of elderly individuals with chronic illnesses. However, in the digital age, intensive online searches for health-related information may disrupt rather than support self-care processes. In this context, cyberchondriaa state of health anxiety triggered by persistent online health information seekinghas emerged as a growing digital health behavior issue, especially among older adults. Limited digital health literacy, high sensitivity to uncertainty, and increased dependency contribute to the elevated risk of cyberchondria in this population, leading to negative outcomes such as poor treatment adherence, reliance on inaccurate information, anxiety disorders, and impaired self-care behaviors. This review examines the prevalence of cyberchondria and its impact on self-care among elderly individuals with chronic diseases, using epidemiological and behavioral data from regions with high aging populations, including the European Union, the United States, and Japan. Findings suggest that while older adults increasingly seek health information online, the quality and interpretation of the information accessed significantly influence their health outcomes. In this process, nurses play a key role in ensuring safe access to information and managing anxiety through guidance and education. (JNNN 2026;15(1):36–43)
Introduction. Dysphagia, a serious complication of stroke, requires precise diagnosis and interdisciplinary treatment, including dietary modifications. Aim. The aim of this study is to present a case of a patient with cerebellar stroke and dysphagia, highlighting the effectiveness of comprehensive treatment and rehabilitation in restoring swallowing function and oral feeding. Case Report. A retrospective analysis of medical records was conducted to evaluate diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. The study presents a case of a patient hospitalized in the Neurology Department of Stanisław Staszic Specialist Hospital in Piła with a diagnosis of cerebellar ischemic stroke, in whom dysphagia was an early and significant complication. Due to swallowing difficulties the patient initially required feeding via a nasogastric tube. Swallowing function was assessed on the first, eighth, and ninth days of hospitalization using the Gugging Swallowing Screen (GUSS) test, a simple and easy-to-administer screening tool. By the eighth day of hospitalization, the patient demonstrated sufficient improvement in swallowing function to initiate oral intake of fluids, which was well tolerated. From the ninth day, the patient was able to consume foods of varying consistencies, as confirmed by a structured swallowing assessment. These improvements were achieved through targeted rehabilitation conducted by a speech therapist and supported by nursing staff. Clinical progress led to the removal of the nasogastric tube on the tenth day, indicating substantial advancement in the patient’s recovery. Discussion. Post-stroke dysphagia is a serious medical condition that can be effectively managed through interdisciplinary rehabilitation. Complications such as aspiration pneumonia and impaired nutritional status are widely recognized risks among patients with dysphagia. Conclusions. This case illustrates how early diagnosis using simple methods and a comprehensive treatment approach can improve vital functions and enhance the quality of life in stroke patients. (JNNN 2026;15(1):21–28)
Introduction. Globally, the incidence of stroke varies considerably. However, the majority of stroke survivors are able to continue their daily activities only with the assistance of others. Both patients and their families may experience psychological problems as a consequence. Aim. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of caregiver burden on the mental state of individuals caring for patients after stroke. Material and Methods. The study was conducted between 2024 and 2025 and included 108 patient–caregiver pairs. A diagnostic survey method was employed. Data were collected using a questionnaire-based survey. Results. All domains of the caregiver burden scale, including high levels of general burden, social isolation, disappointment, emotional involvement, environmental burden, and total burden, had a statistically significant impact on the emotional state of caregivers, who demonstrated symptoms of depression. Conclusions. Increased caregiver burden was associated with significantly poorer mental health among informal caregivers of stroke survivors. As caregiver burden increases, caregivers are more likely to experience depression. (JNNN 2026;15(1):3–10)
Introduction. Spinal cord stimulation is a modern method for treating chronic pain. In many European countries, nurses play a key role in device operation, programming, and patient education. In Poland, this role is still developing. Aim. The aim of this study was to compare the education system and professional preparation level of nurses involved in programming spinal cord stimulation devices in Poland and the United Kingdom. Material and Methods. The study was conducted using a survey containing 11 questions about the scope of competencies, training, collaboration with medical teams, and professional roles. Nurses from 7 centers in England, 1 in Wales, and 1 in Poland completed the survey. Results. In the United Kingdom, nurses involved in the care of patients with spinal cord stimulators can attend certified training programs, and their role is clearly defined within the healthcare system structure. However, it should be emphasized that this is not a standard practice throughout the country and does not apply to all nurses working in neuromodulation. In Poland, although a formal, systemic educational pathway for spinal cord stimulation programming does not yet exist, nurses also undergo certified specialized training. Despite the lack of official postgraduate education guidelines and regulations, the nurse’s role in this field is gradually expanding. Conclusions. The differences between Poland and the United Kingdom mainly concern the degree of systemic regulation of pain nurse education and the scale of their employment. In the United Kingdom, nurses’ involvement in this area is clearly defined, structured, and widely established. It is necessary to develop and implement systemic solutions that will support the growth of this specialist role within the Polish healthcare system. Additionally, both countries lack a formal education pathway for new staff in neuromodulation therapy, which requires urgent regulation. (JNNN 2026;15(1):11–16)
