Abstract: Aims to understand the factors that encourage motivation and engagement of caregivers who are relatively poorly paid, with limited training, but who are required to provide personal care to an increasingly frail population. Undertakes an initial exploratory study, with participants from four rural aged-residential care (ARC) facilities, to identify three key themes that influence caregiver motivation. Subsequently develops these initial themes, within a 42-bed facility, to explore how to encourage caregiver motivation. Bases the four-step process on Lewin’s cycle: plan, act, observe, and reflect. Establishes an advisory group of caregivers who develop a nine-point action plan, accepted by management and implemented in the facility.

Abstract: Examines the experiences of parents and nurses in caring for a child following invasive Slipped Upper Femoral Epiphysis (SUFE) repair. Conducts semi-structured interviews with parents of five children, predominantly Māori or Pacific, who underwent SUFE repair, and five paediatric nurses caring for the children and their families in the hospital ward. Offers two perspectives of the journey for these parents following such an injury, from the child's hospitalisation to caring for these children once they are home. Presents and contrasts these perspectives, revealing insights into the parents' ongoing need for support, information and planning for care, and nurses' efforts to meet these needs. Presents implications for nursing practice.

Abstract: In this article the authors introduce an alternative way that nurses can be with families, using a relational process that can enhance nurses' responses when working with those transitioning to parenthood. Seasons of Life, a framework adapted from the Maori health model He Korowai Oranga, emerged from practice to offer a compassionate and encouraging stance, while at the same time respecting each family's realities and wishes. The model allows the exploration of the transition to parenthood within a wellness model, and takes a strengths-based approach to emotional distress. This approach provides a sense of “normality”, rather than of pathology, for the emotions experienced by new parents. The specific issues men may face are discussed, where despite recent culture change that allows men a more nurturing parental role, there is still no clear understanding of how men articulate their sense of pleasure or distress at this time. Practitioners are encouraged to examine their own assumptions, values and beliefs, and utilise tools such as reflective listening, respect, insight and understanding. The most significant aspect of relationship between nurse and parents is not the outcome, but how nurses engage with families. Examples from practice will demonstrate some of the differing ways this relational process framework has been effective.

Abstract: Mothers, whose children had undergone a liver transplant more than one year ago at time of interview and whose children were outpatients of Starship Children's Hospital, were invited to participate in this research. A Heideggerian hermeneutic phenomenological approach, informed by the work of van Manen (1990) was used. Three mothers of children who had received a liver transplant were interviewed to reveal the meanings of the phenomenon – what is the meaning of lived experience of mothers in caring for their child who has undergone and recovered following liver transplantation? Little previous study regarding mothers' lived experience of caring for their child, who had recovered from a liver transplant, was found in the literature. The emerging themes were punctuated with stress being a consistent feature. Utilising Ruddick's (1983) concepts of maternal thinking, the emerging themes were merged within the three interests governing maternal practice; preservation, growth and acceptability. The absolute capacity for attentive love draws the experience together. An essential theme identified out of the analysis was the concept of survival relating to the unique features of liver transplantation and the consequences of liver rejection and failure. The findings contribute to the understanding of the phenomenon, emphasising the need for good support systems for families of children who have undergone transplantation; assistance in the establishment of maternal coping strategies and regular feedback on the children's progress acknowledging the role and care provided by mothers.

Abstract: Practice nurses are primarily responsible for the administration of vaccinations in New Zealand, although many other health professionals contribute to the success of the National Immunisation Schedule by providing vaccination information and advice to parents. Vaccination uptake remains relatively low, indicating many parents choose not to vaccinate their children. A literature review was undertaken to gain an understanding of factors which may influence parents when they are making decisions about childhood vaccinations. Four key themes were identified within the literature: Perceived risk; Vaccine safety and efficacy; Child characteristics; and the Influence of health professionals/supporting vaccination structures. Increased knowledge and awareness about influential factors creates opportunities for health professionals and policy makers to develop strategies to increase vaccination uptake. Implications and recommendations are made for practice, with particular emphasis on the role of the primary healthcare nurse.

Abstract: The aim of this research was to gain a more complete understanding of cigarette smoking and cessation during pregnancy by examining the men's role in supporting smoking cessation of their pregnant partners. A search of online databases was made for studies published in the last 10 years, in English, that included three phenomena; pregnancy, male partners, and cigarette smoking. Data were identified and organised according to theoretical, descriptive, and intervention methods of research. A growing body of literature indicates an interaction between pregnancy, male partners, and smoking behaviors. Explicating relationships between these phenomena is necessary for understanding and encouraging behaviours that promote maternal, child, and family health. The researchers conclude that current research highlights a need to further investigate the potential relationships, interactions, and health consequences of smoking behaviours of men and women during pregnancy.