Abstract: The aim of this study was to describe the nature and size of long-term residential care homes in New Zealand; funding of facilities; and the ethnic and gender composition of residents and residential care workers nationwide. A postal, fax, and email survey of all long-term residential care homes in New Zealand was undertaken, with completed surveys received from an eligible 845 facilities (response rate: 55%). The majority of these (54%) facilities housed less than 30 residents. Of the 438 (94%) facilities completing the questions about residents' ethnicity, 432 (99%) housed residents from New Zealand European (Pakeha) descent, 156 (33%) housed at least 1 Maori resident, 71 (15%) at least 1 Pacific (Islands) resident, and 61 (13%) housed at least 1 Asian resident. Facilities employed a range of ethnically diverse staff, with 66% reporting Maori staff. Less than half of all facilities employed Pacific staff (43%) and Asian staff (33%). Registered nursing staff were mainly between 46 and 60 years (47%), and healthcare assistant staff were mostly between 25 and 45 years old (52%). Wide regional variation in the ethnic make up of staff was reported. About half of all staff were reported to have moved within the previous 2 years. The authors conclude that the age and turnover of the residential care workforce suggests the industry continues to be under threat from staffing shortages. While few ethnic minority residents live in long-term care facilities, staff come from diverse backgrounds, especially in certain regions.

Abstract: The New Zealand nursing workforce is increasingly made up of overseas trained nurses. There is extensive literature from elsewhere in the world on the impacts of international nurse recruitment and migration on individual nurses and on health services. The literature also portrays evidence of abuse and exploitation, yet few studies are available relating to the experiences of migrant nurses in New Zealand. This research conducted a survey of overseas-trained nurses, specifically focusing on those nurses for whom English is not their first language, to understand the experiences and factors affecting migrant registered nurses in New Zealand. Given the importance to the New Zealand workforce of overseas-trained nurses, this research highlighted that more warnings and advice regarding recruitment agencies and information about nursing in New Zealand and the Nursing Council requirements for registration should be made available to nurses prior to their migration. Nursing leaders should be particularly alert to any evidence of bullying or discrimination based on race or overseas origin.

Abstract: Undertakes a descriptive exploratory study to ascertain the views of Generation Y NZ Registered Nurses (Gen Y nurses) towards nursing, work and career. Little empirical data exists about why young New Zealanders choose to become nurses in the 21st century. Further, little is known about their future career plans or their intentions to remain in the nursing workforce. Conducts a nationwide on-line survey of 358 Gen Y nurses from late 2009 to early 2010. Reports key findings: young NZ nurses are driven by traditional values of altruism, the desire to care for others, the ability to work closely with people, as well as being able to make a strong contribution to society when deciding to become a nurse, while seeking interesting, challenging and exciting work. Job security, the ongoing demand for nurses, the ability to leave and return, as well as the ability to combine work and family, are also important factors that help them to choose to become nurses.

Abstract: Reports the findings of a review of the literature that sought to identify key barriers for indigenous tertiary nursing students in NZ. Reveals the barriers to recruitment and retention of nursing students, and strategies to overcome them. Stresses the need for partnerships between academic institutes and indigenous communities to ensure the provision of a culturally-safe environment for Maori nursing students.

Abstract: Explores the care-giving responsibilities of Asian NZNO member nurses for both children and elders, and the impact of these on their work, their nursing careers and their intention to remain as nurses in NZ. Takes a mixed-method approach using a group interview of 25 nurses and a survey of 562 nurses. Highlights impacts on nurses, revealing variable access to support, with implications for continuing education, career advancement and retention.

Abstract: Considers whether the Canterbury Dedicated Education Unit model of clinical teaching and learning can support graduate registered nurses in their first year of practice. Uses a descriptive exploratory case-study approach to gather data via three focus groups with a total of eleven participants. Undertakes thematic analysis to identify patterned meaning across the dataset from which two primary themes emerge: support, and recruitment and retention. Identifies five associated sub-themes: peer support, organisational support, liaison nurse support, team support for the graduate registered nurses, and team support for the staff. Reveals the significant contribution made by the Nurse Entry-to-Practice Programme Liaison Nurse as a conflict broker.

Abstract: Explores what influences nurses to work in mental health services for older people (MHSOP)and what factors encourage those who did not choose this area of nursing, to continue in MHSOP. Includes nurses' positive and negative perceptions of MHSOP. Collects data via focus group discussions with 30 mental health nurses.

Abstract: Uses an instrumental case study to explore the role of Advanced Choice of Employment (ACE) on the decision to enter the Nurse Entry to Specialised Practice (NESP). Examines the NESP programme in one DHB in which 14 participants who had accepted positions on NESP without specifying the specialty were given semi-structured interviews, as was the NESP coordinator about the employer experience of NESP. Suggests how education providers and DHBs can prepare ACE applicants for the recruitment process.