Abstract: This dissertation explores the nurse's role in addressing the sexual health needs of a rural adolescent community in New Zealand. The increasing incidence of adolescent sexual activity is widely recognised and it is acknowledged that youth face unique barriers to health care. These barriers are particularly apparent in access to contraception with a resulting increase in the rates of sexually transmitted infections, unintended pregnancies and termination of pregnancies. These deteriorating adolescent sexual health statistics are of particular concern within New Zealand's health sector. A review of national and international literature examined the potential nursing role in adolescent sexual health. Results provide strong evidence that experienced nurses can competently and confidently assist in meeting the needs of this population group, especially in rural areas. Literature consistently concluded that nurses could provide care that is as effective as that provided by a doctor. School-based health clinics are identified as a viable way to improve access to adolescent sexual health services. In conclusion, the author suggests that nurses are in a key position to provide an alternative model of health care delivery that can improve adolescent sexual health.

Abstract: This descriptive case study was undertaken to provide an account of chemotherapy practice in a nurse-led clinic located within a rural New Zealand area. The researcher, an oncology nurse specialist, worked alongside colleagues for thirteen months to enable practice development. This clinic developed out of a need to have services closer to rural patients in order to address issues of equity, access, care integration and the fiscal and social constraints associated with the cancer burden of care. Capturing the range of data applicable to this case; the ability to conceptualise it as a service within its context was possible using case study research methods. Four nurses involved in the chemotherapy clinic were participants in this study. The findings of this study reveal that what could be perceived as barriers to outcomes and practice can in essence be turned into opportunities to develop new ways of caring for the patient and supporting nursing practice. These nurses view their practice as safe within the clinic despite resource constraints. They work in many ways to support each other and to cushion the patient from the impact of situational and contextual influences. Nursing practice was shown to evolve as a direct result of internal and external influences which were the impetus for nurses taking responsibility for their own competency. This study also explored what it meant to be an experienced nurse but novice in a speciality practice. It challenges previously held assumptions that, to deliver chemotherapy successfully, a nurse needs to be operating from a previously held body of oncology nursing knowledge. Many challenges are faced on a day to day basis in a rural practice environment to just maintain consistent care and promote good patient outcomes. The nurses are well aware of their role in contributing to patients' quality of life and the roles they take to meet the growing needs of the patient as a consumer. This study delves into the multifarious nature of this nurse-led clinic and discusses the processes and relationships that are forged to deliver care.

Abstract: This is the report of the analysis of data from an in-depth survey designed by Sue Dawson, previously Rural Health Researcher in the Centre for Rural Health, and follow-up interviews. The study purpose was to construct a definition of “successful design and delivery of rural health services” as a step towards a measurement tool. Participants were grouped as general practitioners, nurses and community representatives. A format for a participatory approach to evaluation of rural health services is derived from the criteria of success identified, with its relevance for the implementation of the new Government primary health care strategy explicit. This format provided the basis for a subsequent evaluation case study undertaken in a small rural forestry township by the Centre for Rural Health.