The students gain an increased understanding of cultural differences by maintaining an open attitude and receiving explanations of cultural differences that they do not understand.

The study’s informants were particularly apprehensive about critical emergencies and unsure how to use medical equipment such as bag valve masks.

When ESAS is routinely used to map symptoms, the patients experience greater symptom relief and a better quality of life. However, not everyone uses the tool systematically.

Patients move quickly between different units during the surgical pathway. Older patients in particular are at risk of suffering related to care such as violations of dignity, neglect and poor pain management.

They observe eye contact, comforting and other behaviours based on experience rather than by making use of recognised instruments. Their assessments are influenced by professional development opportunities, a heavy workload and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Helath personnel can learn from the pain team when they have pharmacology-related questions and are drawing up treatment plans, and when they are establishing open and trusting relations with the patient.

Nurses’ psychosocial challenges are transformed into something private and personal instead of being solved at an overarching level in the organisation.