|
|
Richardson, S. (2005). Coping with outbreaks of the norovirus. Kai Tiaki: Nursing New Zealand, 11(7).
Abstract: The author presents an overview of the impact and management of novovirus infections in New Zealand. The impact of this highly contagious virus on hospital settings is serious. With staff shortages already a problem, any outbreak of contagious disease has the potential to result in unsafe staffing, either through low numbers or poor skill mix. A report from New Zealand Environmental Science and Research (ESR) showed 35 reported norovirus outbreaks in New Zealand in the first quarter of 2004, resulting in 890 cases of the disease. Norovirus outbreaks are characterised by a rapid spread of infection, high uptake rate, and a high proportion of cases presenting with projectile vomiting. The author provides a definition of the novovirus, and looks at transmission, the management of hospital outbreaks, and the impact on emergency departments and hospital wards. Procedures include in-patient isolation. She notes there are no simple answers or “quick fixes” to the problem of norovirus outbreaks. While ongoing surveillance, recognition and isolation are key elements, there are wider structural and political implications that need to be acknowledged. These issues include overcrowding and staff shortages.
|
|
|
|
Richardson, S. (2005). Incorporation of research into clinical practice: The development of a clinical nurse researcher position. Nursing Praxis in New Zealand, 21(1), 33–42.
Abstract: The author backgrounds the development of the role of an innovative Nurse Researcher (Emergency Medicine) role at Christchurch Hospital. She describes the emergency department and the factors leading to the creation of the role. Specific nursing research projects are reviewed, and the nature of nursing in relation to research is discussed. The author argues that the nurse researcher is integral to the expansion of evidence-based nursing, and that the role of Clinical Nurse Researcher in the emergency department has resulted in a higher profile for research, and the gradual integration of research as a clinical skill with direct practical relevance.
|
|
|
|
Richardson, S. (2004). Aoteaoroa/New Zealand nursing: From eugenics to cultural safety. Nursing Inquiry, 11(1), 35–42.
Abstract: The concept of cultural safety offers a unique approach to nursing practice, based on recognition of the power differentials inherent in any interaction. Clarification of the concept is offered, together with a review of the historical shift in nursing attitudes that has led to the emergence of “cultural safety” as a viable and valued component of nursing practice. The argument is made that cultural safety has allowed for a more reflective, critical understanding of the actions of nursing to develop. This includes recognition that nurses' attitudes and values have inevitably been influenced by social and political forces, and as such are in part reflective of those within the wider community. Comparison between the support given by nurses in the early 1900s to the theory of eugenics and the current acceptance of cultural safety is used to highlight this point. An examination of the literature identifies that ideological and conceptual changes have occurred in the approach of Aoteaoroa/New Zealand nurses to issues with cultural implications for practice. A review of background factors relating to Maori health status and the Treaty of Waitangi is presented as a necessary context to the overall discussion. The discussion concludes with an acknowledgement that while the rhetoric of cultural safety is now part of nursing culture in New Zealand, there is no firm evidence to evaluate its impact in practice. Issues identified as impacting on the ability to assess/research a concept, such as cultural safety, are discussed. For cultural safety to become recognised as a credible (and indispensable) tool, it is necessary to further examine the “end-point” or “outcomes” of the process.
|
|
|
|
Richardson, S. (1999). Increasing patient numbers: The implications for New Zealand emergency departments. Accident & Emergency Nursing, 7(3), 158–163.
Abstract: This article examines influences that impact on the work of the Emergency Departments (EDs). EDs are noticing increased attendance of patients with minor or non-urgent conditions. This increase in patient volume, together with on-going fiscal constraints and restructuring, has placed an added strain on the functioning of EDs. New Zealand nurses need to question the role currently given to EDs and identify the issues surrounding the increased use of these departments for primary health care.
|
|
|
|
Richardson, S. (1999). Emergency departments and the inappropriate attender: Is it time for a reconceptualisation of the role of primary care in emergency facilities? Nursing Praxis in New Zealand, 14(2), 13–20.
Abstract: This paper reviews currently identified issues concerning emergency department attendance, and examines the core question of the role of primary care in the emergency department. Asks whether this is an appropriate use of emergency department resources, and if so, what the implications are for the role of the emergency nurse. Suggests the establishment of Minor Injury Units in New Zealand like those in the UK.
|
|
|
|
Richardson, S., & Allen, J. (2001). Casualization of the nursing workforce: A New Zealand perspective on an international phenomenon. International Journal of Nursing Practice, 7(2), 104–108.
Abstract: A discussion of the increased use of 'casual' nursing staff (those nurses employed on a casual or 'per diem' basis) is presented. Reference is made to related literature, together with consideration of the implications associated with this trend. This issue has international significance, with the increased use of casual staff being widely recognised. A New Zealand perspective is included, with the provision of nursing care at Christchurch Hospital presented to illustrate certain aspects of the discussion. The impact of changing health-care systems and increased emphasis on efficiency and accountability are identified. This change to workplace practice will inevitably affect nursing; possible future developments are considered.
|
|
|
|
Richardson, S., Ardagh, M., & Hider, P. (2006). New Zealand health professionals do not agree about what defines appropriate attendance at an emergency department. Access is free to articles older than 6 months, and abstracts., 119(1232).
Abstract: This study aims to examine the concept of 'inappropriate' emergency department attendances in relation to the emergency department at Christchurch Hospital. It specifically seeks to determine whether there is a consensus opinion among healthcare providers regarding a definition of 'inappropriate'. An exploratory survey of health professionals involved with the referral, assessment, transport, and treatment of emergency department patients in Christchurch was carried out. A range of health professionals, including ambulance personnel, general practitioners, emergency department physicians, emergency nurses, and hospital managers were approached. A series of questions relating to definition and response to 'inappropriate' patients was asked, with an additional open-ended question relating to the definition of 'appropriateness'. The researchers found significant differences in the attitudes and perceptions of key health professionals involved in the referral, treatment, and admission of patients to the emergency department. This has implications for any interventions aimed at addressing emergency department 'overcrowding' that assume the presence of a consensus understanding of this concept.
|
|
|
|
Richardson, S. K., Grainger, P.C., & Joyce, L. R. (2022). Challenging the culture of Emergency Department violence and aggression. NZMJ, 135(1554). Retrieved May 2, 2024, from https://journal.nzma.org.nz/
Abstract: Outlines findings from a longitudinal study of the reporting of violence and aggression (V&A) within Christchurch Hospital Emergency Department (ED). Continues a prospective, longitudinal cohort study involving repeated yearly audits of ED staff reporting V&A during the same month each year. Employs an audit approach, focussing on the accuracy of routine reporting. Captures data from 2014-2020,including staff members' professional group, gender, category of V&A (e.g. verbal or physical abuse or threat, and physical or sexual assault), date and location of incident, and the individual who committed the violence.
|
|
|
|
Richardson, S. K., Grainger, P. C., Ardagh, M. W., & Morrison, R. (2018). Violence and aggression in the emergency department is under-reported and under-appreciated. New Zealand Medical Journal, 131(1476). Retrieved May 2, 2024, from www.nzma.org.nz/journal
Abstract: Examines levels of reported violence and aggression within a tertiary-level emergency department (ED) in NZ. Explores staff attitudes to violence and the reporting of it. Conducts a one-month intensive prospective audit of the reporting of violence and aggression within the ED. Compares results with previously-reported data, and finds that failure to report acts of violence is common. Highlights that emergency nurses are the primary targets of abuse and confirms the effect it has on retention.
|
|
