Abstract: This is the third and last phase of a research project following the careers of 30 of the (1986) cohort of Comprehensive Nursing Graduates. The report consists of interview extracts which allow these graduates to 'speak for themselves' about their post registration experience in the nursing workforce. This information should be of interest to those responsible for providing orientation and staff development programs

Abstract: A student exercise using the qualitative research approach of Glaser and Strauss, commonly known as 'Grounded Theory'. The theory is generated from and grounded into data. Part One dealt with the advantages and disadvantages of qualitative research and its applicability as a methodology to add to Nursings' knowledge base. Part Two was a student learning exercise in the use of Grounded theory as a strategy for theory generation. Nurses identified three main categories that contributed to their perception of their stress level. 1. The degree of control Nurses perceived themselves as having on any given situation. 2. Their personal self image. 3. Their interpersonal skills and relationships with other people within the work environment

Abstract: There is a dearth of information about community-based health promotion ortreatment services for women with disabilities in New Zealand. Little is also knownabout what health care providers perceive are the best ways to provide theseservices.This study examines the question “ What are the best health care practices fordisabled women?” An exploratory, descriptive approach was used to interview threehealth professionals (one nurse and two doctors) working in two different generalpractices, regarding their perspective of this question. These health professionalswere identified by women with disabilities as providing a quality service to them.Data was collected on their philosophy of care, definitions of disability, professionaleducation and range of primary medical and nursing care provided. The data wasanalysed for recurring themes related to each of the semi-structured interviewquestions. The characteristics of 'best health care' were found to include:client-centered care, communication and equality of care. The findings have beendiscussed in relation to the recommendations from the 1993 National AdvisoryCommittee on Core Health and Disability Support Services and feminist literature

Abstract: The aim of this study was to identify some nursing students' perceptions of how the process of journalling helps them to learn about nursing. The study sample were three students enrolled full time in a Bachelor of Nursing programme and at the end of their first year. Each student volunteer participated in a semi-structured audio-taped interview, guided by the opening question “What is journalling like for you?” The tapes were transcribed, coded and analysed for general themes. Each participant received a copy of her transcript and was invited to alter, add or delete any information. The findings highlighted the difficulties of beginning to journal, learning how to journal, personal growth through journalling, the journal as a critical document of oneself, a love-hate relationship with journalling, and what journalling is like now

Abstract: The interdepartmental Center for Postgraduate Studies is newly established within the University of Otago and intends to develop a research profile which is responsive to the health care of the community ad can provide a rigorous basis for teaching and postgraduate research. This study aims to determine:* the characteristics and needs of those people with a serious mental disorder who are cared for by community mental health nurses.* the characteristics of the community mental health nurse's role.* the environmental, political issues and policies which impact on the needs of patients and the role of the community mental health nurse.This is timely research given public concerns about mental health services, lack of integration in social and health policy and the impact of the Health Reforms on care delivery (National Health Committee, 1998; Howden-Chapman, 1998) but limited empirical data or systematic investigation of the issues from a service user, on the needs of users of community health services and their families, and the role of the community health nurse in meeting these needs

Abstract: This study was undertaken to ascertain the opinions of nursing students at Wellington Polytechnic (now Massey University Campus of Wellington) about their current uniform worn on clinical placements. As the NZNO National Student Unit representative at Wellington Polytechnic, it was brought to my attention by my fellow students that the current uniform was not particularly functional. As a result of these comments I concluded the best way for students to voice their opinions further was to circulate a survey. The survey questioned the students about the current uniform and what they thought the future uniform might be. The survey was available for collection by students for a two week period in July 1998. Participation was voluntary and anonymous. It was approved by the Research and Ethics Committee, School of Nursing, Health and Environmental Sciences, Wellington Polytechnic. The results were that sixty percent of students supported a change in the current uniform. Most students chose a tunic top as their preferred option. If there was to be a change, students would be prepared to spend $20-49. Consequently permission has been granted by the Head of Department – School of Nursing to investigate a change to a tunic style top. The item will be trialed by those who wish to purchase it in 1999. I believe that it is of utmost importance that student satisfaction with their clinical uniform is assessed at regular intervals to ensure that the students take a pride in their presentation and the uniform serves the purpose for which it is intended