Abstract: This paper summarises research which addresses the question What might constitute Maori nursing practice? The research design adopted was influenced by kaupapa Maori methodology and used a semi-structured, qualitative, in-depth interview process. It was found that by understanding the current experiences of Maori registered nurses, their reflections on their preparation for practice, and their current practice, it is possible to identify the present and future training and practice needs of Maori nurses. Maori nursing practice can be characterised as having five features: the promotion of cultural affirmation including cultural awareness and identity; the support of, and access to Maori networks; the adoption of Maori models of health; the enabling of visibility and pro-activity as Maori nurses; and, the validation of Maori nurses as effective health professionals. Three recommendations for promoting Maori nursing practice are made in relation to staff in the workplace and in nurse education programmes: all nursing staff need to be alert to: 1. the impact of western scientific models on Maori healthcare; 2. the (often passive) non-acceptance of Maori within mainstream institutions; and iii) the benefits of valuing indigenous nursing programmes.

Abstract: This paper moves away from the prevalent discourse of competence to consider the meaning of the experience of 'being safe' within the context of childbirth. It offers findings from a doctoral study, informed by the philosophies of Heidegger and Gadamer. Following ethical approval, the data was collected in New Zealand by tape-recorded interviews of 5 midwives, 4 obstetricians, 1 general practitioner and 10 women. The method was informed by van Manen. The findings reveal that in seeking the meaning of being safe one needs to be aware that the unsafety may already be present in the situation. Practitioners may be able to do little to rectify the unsafeness. There is, however, a spirit of safe practice, explicated in this paper, that is likely to make practice as safe as it can possibly be. Wise practitioners are ever mindful that a situation may be or become unsafe, and are always aware of their own limitations.

Abstract: This paper provides an overview of the structure and processes of an eighteen month, distance education course focused on developing advanced practice in the context of critical care nursing. Within the framework of a Master of Health Science, the postgraduate certificate (critical care nursing) was developed as a collaboration between Auckland University of Technology and two regional health providers. Students enrol in science and knowledge papers concurrently then, in the second half of the course, are supported within their practice environment to acquire advanced clinical skills and to analyse, critique and develop practice within their specialty. This course is set against a background of increasing interest in education post registration. The acquisition of highly developed clinical capabilities requires a combination of nursing experience and education. This requires collaboration between clinicians and nurse educators, and approaches to address accessibility of relevant educational opportunities for nurses outside the country's main centres.

Abstract: The health status of indigenous peoples is a global concern with mortality and hospitalisation data indicating that the health of indigenous groups falls below that of other ethnic groups within their countries. The preliminary findings of grounded theory research project undertaken with a group of 23 New Zealand Maori women about their health priorities and 'mainstream' health service needs provide the foundation for an exploration of issues impacting on the health status of indigenous people. The role that nursing and nurses have in improving access and use of health services by indigenous people is discussed. Strategies are suggested that nurses can utilise within their practice when working with local indigenous groups.

Abstract: This paper uses the findings of two studies to explore the nature of nurses' practice when working with vulnerable and marginalised populations, particularly with regard to the attributes of holism and individualised care. The first study was with the elderly with delirium and used a critical gerontological methodology informed by postmodernism and Foucault's understanding of discourse. The other study with indigenous Maori women utilised Glaserian grounded theory informed by a Maori-centred methodology. The findings show that a problem focussed approach to health care is offered to patients that does not incorporate individual health experiences. In addition, the social context integral to people's lives outside of the health care environment is ignored. Consequently, the foundations of nursing practice, that of holism, is found to be merely a rhetorical construct.