Abstract: This thesis explores the theoretical notions of suffering and caring within the nurse patient relationship in the context of emergency nursing. It includes a small pilot study that aimed to assess the feasibliity of a major research project, by describing the impact of vicarious traumatisation in emergency nurses, specifically in relation to their self capacities. This pilot study utilised a descriptive, correlational design. Data was collected by using the Inner Experience Questionnaire (IEQ) a twenty four-item questionnaire developed by Dr Pearlman (1995), and a profile sheet which identified demographic details. Twenty-seven emergency nurses participated in this pilot study. The IEQ was assessed for internal reliability by applying the Cronbachs alpha and utilising a focus group to gain insight into the usability and relevance of the questions. The internal reliability of the IEQ suggests that it may be an appropriate tool to measure disruption of self capacities in the population of emergency nurses. Although the results are limited, and conclusions cannot be drawn, findings suggest a correlation between the variables of age, experience, nursing qualifications and a history of personal trauma and the IEQ. There is evidence that emergency nurses are affected psychologically when caring for the victims of trauma in emergency departments and the IEQ has the potential as a tool to be integrated into future emergency nursing studies. A multidimensional methodological approach is recommended to capture the many contours of the complex phenomena of vicarious traumatisation and the emergency nurse.

Abstract: This conference paper outlines the nature of nursing research developing the distinct knowledge for nursing practice. It is presented as a cumulative process of knowledge development about health, practice and service delivery. Nursing research is illustrated by tracing a personal trajectory of research over 25 years that addressed questions relating to and derived from the practice of nursing.

Abstract: Asks what is the value of randomised ccontrolled trials (RCT), and argues that different trial designs are appropriate for different types of question, e.g. intervention, aetiology, diagnosis, prognosis, therapy, and experience. Backgrounds the formation of the Cochrane Collaboration. Relates the author's own experience in becoming a clinical triallist and considers the barriers to nurses running RCTs. Explains the need and intent of the Australasian Nursing and Midwifery Clinical Trials Network (ANMCTN)