Abstract: The aim of this study was to obtain a 2005 snapshot of the New Zealand rural primary health care workforce, specifically GPs, general practice nurses and community pharmacists. A postal questionnaire was distributed to rural general practice managers, GPs, nurses, community pharmacy managers and pharmacists in November 2005. The self-reported data included information on demographics, country of training, years in practice, business ownership, hours worked including on-call, and intention to leave rural practice.

Abstract: The aim of this paper is to report a study to compare the diabetes-related work roles, training and attitudes of practice nurses in New Zealand surveyed in 1990 and 1999, to consider whether barriers to practice nurse diabetes care changed through that decade, and whether ongoing barriers will be addressed by current changes in primary care. Questionnaires were mailed to all 146 practice nurses in South Auckland in 1990 and to all 180 in 1999, asking about personal and practice descriptions, practice organisation, time spent with patients with diabetes, screening practices, components of care undertaken by practice nurses, difficulties and barriers to good practice, training in diabetes and need for further education. The 1999 questionnaire also asked about nurse prescribing and influence on patient quality of life. More nurses surveyed in 1999 had post-registration diabetes training than those in 1990, although most of those surveyed in both years wanted further training. In 1999, nurses looked after more patients with diabetes, without spending more time on diabetes care than nurses in 1990. Nevertheless, they reported increased involvement in the more complex areas of diabetes care. Respondents in 1999 were no more likely than those in 1990 to adjust treatment, and gave a full range of opinion for and against proposals to allow nurse prescribing. The relatively low response rate to the 1990 survey may lead to an underestimate of changes between 1990 and 1999. Developments in New Zealand primary care are likely to increase the role of primary health care nurses in diabetes. Research and evaluation is required to ascertain whether this increasing role translates into improved outcomes for patients.

Abstract: Compares the delivery models used by primary health-care nurses in Auckland for follow-up services aimed at Pacific children discharged from hospital with preventable illnesses, with similar services and programmes in Tonga and Samoa. Also compares NZ and Pacific Island programmes to promote immunisation and breastfeeding. Part of the Margaret May Blackwell Scholarship Reports series.

Abstract: Looks one of the eleven health care nursing innovation projects funded by the Ministry of Health: Vibe Youth Transition Services, located in the Hutt Valley, formerly known as the Hutt Valley Youth Service. Highlights the leadership role provided by the nurse practitioner (NP) which led to youth health and development nationally.

Abstract: Describes nurses' perceptions of their use of evidence-based practice, attitudes toward evidence-based practice and perceptions of their knowledge/skills associated with evidence-based practice. Determines the effect of educational preparation on practice, attitudes, and knowledge/skills toward evidence-based practice. Utilises a descriptive survey design to poll 55 West Auckland practice nurses working the general practice setting.

Abstract: Reports the findings of a study examining aspects of the implementation of the Primary Health Care Strategy on primary health care nursing in a small district health board (DHB) in NZ. Conducts an instrumental case study informed by onstructionism and underpinned by a qualitative interpretive design. Collects data from policy documents and strategic plans and by means of interviews with managers at middle and senior levels at the local DHB and two PHOs.

Abstract: Examines whether a postgraduate programme for Well Child/Tamariki Ora (WCTO) nurses prepares nurses new to child health to understand primary health care, health promotion, community nursing and nursing theory. Uses on online survey devised by Plunket National Educators to evaluate the (WCTO) strand of the Postgraduate Certificate in Primary Health Care Specialty Nursing curriculum against the delivery of the programme. Assesses student experience and student perceptions of the impact of their learning on their nursing practice. Considers whether it enables nurses to consider the specific populations in their care, or to encourage individuals, families and communities to increase their skills in health-focused daily living. Seeks to ascertain whether the structure of the programme, based on the clinical integration approach, supports nursing practice and academic study.

Abstract: Analyses retrospective prescription data for the years 2007-2015 to determine how access to isotretinoin altered before and after funded access was extended from dermatologists to include GPs and nurse practitioners who obtained a Special Authority. Assesses maternity outcomes for females dispensed the drug with regard to pregnancy terminations and isotretinoin-exposed live births. Examines outcomes based on type of prescriber and use or otherwise of the Best Practice Advocacy Centre (BPAC) electronic isotretinoin decision-support tool.