Abstract: This action research inquiry explores communication and nursing practice in an effort to improve practice and enhance patient care. Action research is a critical reflective process that involves spirals or cycles of planning, acting, reflecting/evaluating and replanning the next cycle. Using ear syringing as a procedure, in the general practice setting and at two separate surgeries, the author and another practice nurse co-researched this study during working hours. Twelve people consented to participate in the research that involved the audiotaping of each ear syringing interaction. Following each transcription of the recording, the researchers read their own and then each other's transcripts, and listened to the recordings. They discussed and reflected on their findings and planned the next cycle. Throughout the process, the researchers found a number of areas of practice to change or enhance. Changes included the use of technical language such as “contraindications” and “auditory meatus”, the side effects of syringing, improvements in communicating situations where ear syringing is not recommended and the options available, and post procedure information. These changes became a significant challenge, for example when both researchers forgot the changes, thus repeating previous errors and omissions. This factor highlighted the need to practise any changes prior to interactions, and to have a cue card on hand to facilitate recollection and to cement improvements into practice. Although time constraints limited this inquiry to three cycles, at the final meeting the researchers agreed to continue the reflective process they had begun to explore their practice.

Abstract: The Plunket orientation programme, first implemented in 1994, aims to prepare new Plunket Nurses for autonomous practice within the complexity of community based nursing. This study seeks to identify what new Plunket Nurses feel are their orientation needs. An evaluation research approach was used. An examination of the literature explored how orientation is conducted and the needs of nurses in orientation. Key aspects in relation to orientation were identified as including socialisation, job change, new graduates, preceptorship, orientation frameworks and retention. A focus group followed by a postal survey were utilised to collect data from new Plunket Nurses nationwide to ascertain what they thought their orientation needs were. Data analysis was completed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The results of the study identified key orientation needs for new Plunket Nurses. These were an orientation programme, preceptorship, clinical skills teaching, time in own area and beginning autonomous practice, administration needs and support needs. The participants recommended quality preceptorship and early clinical teaching from the Clinical Educator. There was a general dissatisfaction with orientation as it stands in preparing them for their role as a Plunket Nurse. Recommendations to the Plunket Management Team were made based on the results of this study.

Abstract: Chronic stress and 'burnout' have been extensively researched in nursing populations, but very little is known about the impact of specific acutely stressful or significant events. A novice nurse's first encounter with patient death may pose considerable cognitive, emotional and clinical challenges. Using a mixed methods design, this study explored the clinical circumstances, impact and challenges and rewards of nurses' early experiences with patient death.

Abstract: This book examines in detail the confluence of personalities and professional and practice agendas, out of which emerged the research section, intent on placing research at the centre of the profession's evolution. It provides a fascinating look at how a group of women, utterly committed to nursing, drove their research agenda and it expands understandings of why nursing research is significant for the development of nursing. It also provides an insight into that web of relationships between the professional body, NZNA, the Department of Health, service delivery and education.
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Abstract: Identifies the experiences of NZ cancer nurses whose primary role is to care for patients aged 20 or older, and their whanau/family, and describes the factors that may influence care. Examines whether nurses received training in the management of stressors associated with caring for cancer patients, either during their training or while in the cancer workplace setting. Considers whether nurses working in peripheral (satellite) cancer centres were at more risk than their colleagues in larger regional centres. Conducts a quantitative, descriptive and anonymous survey of members of the Cancer Nurses' Section of the NZNO, using the Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL) questionnaire, which scores compassion fatigue, compassion satisfaction and burnout.

Abstract: Undertakes a descriptive exploratory study to ascertain the views of Generation Y NZ Registered Nurses (Gen Y nurses) towards nursing, work and career. Little empirical data exists about why young New Zealanders choose to become nurses in the 21st century. Further, little is known about their future career plans or their intentions to remain in the nursing workforce. Conducts a nationwide on-line survey of 358 Gen Y nurses from late 2009 to early 2010. Reports key findings: young NZ nurses are driven by traditional values of altruism, the desire to care for others, the ability to work closely with people, as well as being able to make a strong contribution to society when deciding to become a nurse, while seeking interesting, challenging and exciting work. Job security, the ongoing demand for nurses, the ability to leave and return, as well as the ability to combine work and family, are also important factors that help them to choose to become nurses.