Abstract: The author presents the results of a study carried out as part of a research project with two nurse researchers from Maastricht University in the Netherlands. The aim of this study was to examine awareness among female students aged 18 to 25 about cervical cancer and to identify factors associated with their decision or intention to enter the cervical screening programme. Students aged 18-25 were recruited from four tertiary institutions in the Wellington region. A questionnaire was available online and distributed by student health centres and the researchers. Questions covered the following areas: intentions, attitude, knowledge, awareness, modelling, and support systems and efficacy. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics, multiple regression and independent t-tests. The findings are presented, and factors associated with intention and participation in cervical screening are discussed. The results indicate that the information concerning the national screening programme needs to be adjusted for the different age groups.

Abstract: The author examines the complexities surrounding non-Maori nurse researchers working on Maori issues. She suggests that as long as respect and observation of Maori processes is shown, and work is undertaken collaboratively with Maori, then such a role is appropriate.

Abstract: This observational study analyses the responses of 38 nurses from two similar units that use different patient handling systems to test the reliability and validity of the Safe Patient Handling Survey (TM) SPH Survey(TM), a perception survey and improvement tool for employees and employers. Currently there is a lack of tools for evaluating patient handling systems. The survey contains 55 questions divided into 6 clusters, staff and patient injury and violence questions, and picture questions depicting unsafe techniques. The data were analysed to see how the SPH Survey(TM) scores correlate with incidents, and its ability to detect differences between the two units. The results of the Pearson and Cronbach(TM) alpha tests show strong reliability, validity and consistency of the SPH Survey(TM). ANOVA comparison of means and Spearman(TM) rho tests shows that higher (better) scores on the SPH Survey(TM) clusters correlate with lower numbers of patient injuries, lower reports of verbal and physical violence episodes, and lower staff injuries. Differences were detected between the units with Unit 2 scoring higher than Unit 1 in all SPH Survey(TM) clusters and scoring lower in staff and patient injuries and violence incidents. Although the analysis was limited by the small sample size, the study has created a sound basis for further investigation. The SPH Survey(TM) is shown to be an easy way to reliably evaluate patient handling systems and workplace culture, target improvement initiatives, and continually monitor the level of patient handling risk in the workplace. Low-risk patient handling gives health care providers the means to focus on delivering high quality patient care, without endangering their own health and well-being.

Abstract: This paper presents an analysis of mixed methods research, which the authors suggest is captured by a pragmatically inflected form of post-positivism. Although it passes for an alternative methodological movement that purports to breach the divide between qualitative and quantitative research, most mixed methods studies favour the forms of analysis and truth finding associated with positivism. The authors anticipate a move away from exploring more philosophical questions or undertaking modes of enquiry that challenge the status quo. At the same time, they recognise that mixed methods research offers particular strengths and that, although it serves as a Trojan Horse for positivism, it may productively carry other paradigmatic passengers.

Abstract: This article draws on empirical evidence to illustrate the core role of nurse practitioners in Australia and New Zealand. A study jointly commissioned by both countries' Regulatory Boards developed information of the newly created nurse practitioner role, to develop shared competency and educational standards. This interpretive study used multiple data sources, including published and grey literature, policy documents, nurse practitioner programme curricula and interviews with 15 nurse practitioners from the two countries. The core role of the nurse practitioner was identified as having three components: dynamic practice, professional efficacy and clinical leadership. Nurse practitioner practice is dynamic and involves the application of high level clinical knowledge and skills in a wide range of contexts. The nurse practitioner demonstrates professional efficacy, enhanced by an extended range of autonomy that includes legislated privileges. The nurse practitioner is a clinical leader with a readiness and an obligation to advocate for their client base and their profession at the systems level of health care.

Abstract: This research examines how nurses negotiate the context of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) while working with families. The action research described in this thesis developed through a series of meetings and conversations where the conversations supported the reflexive intent of the research. In commissioning the research, the design of the meetings and conversations were as a series of overlapping actions. Data collection and data analysis occurred in the action research by meetings, reflective conversations, ad libitum observations, and in a research journal. Conceptual maps explain the progress and findings of the research in this thesis while categories distilled from the conversations also support the findings in the research. The Family Action Research Group that was established within this project proposed a Family Assessment Form for the family to provide an assessment of themselves and the patient. Implementing this assessment tool demonstrated that clear information was needed for the family in the ICU. Findings in this research focus on developing action research and family care in ICU. Findings also focused on the role of the researcher being of and not being of the context where action research is undertaken. Recommendations include staff examining relationships for potential asymmetries and seeking ways to address these to support families and staff. Suggested strategies for developing action research in a clinical context include detailed planning, clear focusing, transparency of data, and working to explain change initiatives through the research are also included.

Abstract: The authors examine gender based disparities for academics with respect to remuneration, academic grading and Perfomance Based Research Fund (PBRF) scores, whereby women do less well than men in each of these areas. In this article individualised explanations for the failure of women to progress are set in the context of a critical exploration of the PBRF evaluation methodology. It is argued that both academia and the PBRF research assessment exercise embody a form of academic masculinity that systematically disadvantages women in general and nursing in particular.

Abstract: The author critiques the claim that mixed method research is a third methodology, and the implied belief that the mixing of qualitative and quantitative methods will produce the 'best of both worlds'. The author suggests that this assumption, combined with inherent promises of inclusiveness, takes on a reality and certainty in research findings that serves well the powerful nexus of economic restraint and evidence-based practice. The author argues that the use of the terms 'qualitative' and 'quantitative' as normative descriptors reinforces their binary positioning, effectively marginalising the methodological diversity within them. Ideologically, mixed methods covers for the continuing hegemony of positivism, albeit in its more moderate, postpositivist form. If naively interpreted, mixed methods could become the preferred approach in the teaching and doing of research. The author concludes that rather than the promotion of more co-operative and complex designs for increasingly complex social and health issues, economic and administrative pressures may lead to demands for the 'quick fix' that mixed methods appears to offer.