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.

Abstract: This paper will focus on nursing leadership, in particular the place of whanau ora in nursing practice. It explores one Maori and one tauiwi leadership style in relation to nursing practice in a whanau ora context. A critical appraisal of the Maori leadership style is given alongside discussion of how it promotes positive shifts in the health status of Maori communities. Finally, the paper discusses how this Maori leadership style supports the learning and development of Maori student nurses preparing for registered practice.

Abstract: This project is a study of the barriers perceived by perioperative nurses to accessing and using research-based information. A survey questionnaire was distributed to 184 perioperative nurses working in five public and two private hospitals in the Auckland area. The number of completed questionnaires was 106 (57.6%). The results showed that the lack of time during work hours was ranked as the highest barrier. The results also showed that many nurses feel they do not have the skills to find and appraise research articles.

Abstract: This project was initiated by the Ministry of Health to ensure a nationally coordinated approach to mental health nursing. The purpose of the project is to provide a national strategic framework for mental health nursing that will strengthen both nursing leadership and practice within the multi-disciplinary clinical environment. The framework reviews a range of key workforce issues identified by the Ministry of Health and provides strategies to move mental health nursing forward. The framework integrates directions from government mental health strategies, policies and directions, national and international literature as well as professional nursing requirements which aim to create a sustainable mental health nursing workforce using evidence based practice. The framework considers a range of key workforce issues identified by the Ministry of Health including: nursing leadership, nurse practitioners, standards, skill mix, clinical career pathways, professional supervision, education, research and recruitment and retention.

Abstract: This qualitative research project explored the experiences of nurse educators who sought to assess aspects, which could be related to facilitation of emotional competence, in nursing students. Focus groups were conducted in three different educational institutions, offering a Bachelor of nursing degree. Each of the participants had a teaching and assessment role within the school of nursing. The contributions of the nurse educators and their interactions were audio taped, transcribed and then later, analysed using thematic and focus group analysis practices. From the analysis of the experiences of the nurse educators, four predominant themes arose which capture the areas of importance to the participants. Student nurses can develop emotional competence by critically reflecting during classroom and clinical experiences. Continuous consideration must be made within each practicing area of nursing, of the environmental and relational challenges which inhibit or facilitate nurse's ability to practice with emotional competence. Educators and practicing nurses, who work alongside students, must uphold the expectation that emotional competence is a requisite ability and provide opportunities to foster emotional growth and skills to resolve conflict within the culture of nursing. A common view shared by the educators was that the profession of nursing needs to have a clear understanding of what constitutes emotional competence. Strategies to realistically incorporate emotional competence into the educational curriculum and competency based assessment opportunities within nursing education are required. Suggestions are presented from which undergraduate nursing education can facilitate development of emotional competence with those students working toward becoming a registered nurse. Emotional competence is suggested as an essential learning outcome in the movement toward transformative nursing education and a collaborative nursing profession.

Abstract: This qualitative study focuses on van Manen's theory of the 'lived experience' in relation to two families and asks the first thesis question. What is the value of music in the care of someone who is dying? Over the course of their loved one's illness these families provided music in the patients home as part of their care. The study also captures the experiences of two nurses who work in the palliative setting, and their use of music in providing holistic care to their patients. Their experiences relate to the second question. How can nurses be assisted in introducing music into their planned care of patients? The results demonstrate the effectiveness of using taped music for someone who is dying, and the reduction in symptoms, such as anxiety, and pain. It also highlights the importance of the individual's choice, and the special moments that can be achieved for both patient and families when music is used in a caring, supportive environment. This encourages communication, especially in the sharing of emotions. This study may be the first qualitative study in New Zealand, that addresses the value of music in palliative care, therefore there is a need for continued research into this therapy as a treatment modality as part of planned care in palliative nursing.

Abstract: This report presents selected aspects of an inquiry based on a conversation with Raeleen, a graduate of a post-graduate nursing programme. Raeleen talks about her experience of critical thinking during her post-graduate studies. The authors suggest that, through this conversation, it is possible to explore the nature of critical thinking and examine the important roles teachers can play in facilitating its development. Includes discussion questions prepared by Rebecca Hennephof that consider the relevance and impact of critical thinking on nursing practice.

Abstract: This report presents the findings of the developmental evaluation programme for the three-year innovation project. It includes the model of the integrative nursing service scheme with mobile whanau/family nurses as the hub of healthcare provision for a new paradigm of service design and delivery spanning primary-secondary-tertiary sectors. The form of healthcare the local people received, the nature of the nursing practice and role, service delivery and employment parameters required to support the nurses in practice are presented. The service configuration model subsequently gave the structure to Lake Taupo Primary Health Organisation with the hub of family nurses with a mobile comprehensive practice.