Abstract: This article explores the role of the registered nurse (RN) in the critical care environment. It presents the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) as a unique environment, with a specific relationship to technology, and a history that mirrors scientific development. It explores the tensions for a caring profession with a distinct culture practising in a highly medicalised, acute environment, and affirms the value of quality human care.

Abstract: This aim of this thesis was to explore and describe registered nurses' experiences of undertaking the statutory role of Responsible Clinician under the Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992. The role of Responsible Clinician has been available to nurses since 1992 yet to date there has been little research into nurses' experiences of undertaking this role. An exploratory descriptive approach was therefore used in this study. A convenience sample of four nurses who had been undertaking the role of Responsible Clinician was recruited. Their experiences were elicited through in-depth interviews. Analysis of the interview material revealed the themes of legitimacy, relationships, expanding practice, responsibility and accountability, approaches to care, nurses' responsiveness to the role and support of the role. The author points to this research being important to nurses who are working in the psychiatric mental health area so that they can understand the role more fully. In this way, more nurses may choose to undertake the role of Responsible Clinician.

Abstract: Registered nurses in residential aged care work with older people who have complex care needs. Besides providing direct care, these nurses have a wide range of responsibilities which include supervising staff and attending to the smooth running of the care facility. This grounded theory study using dimensional analysis was aimed at answering the question: How do registered nurses organise their work? Indepth interviews were conducted with 10 registered nurses who worked in a range of positions in aged care facilities. Theoretical sampling and constant comparative analysis was used to guide both ongoing data collectiona and data analysis. Categories were examined for their relationships and dimensions to arrive at a substantive grounded theory which the author has named 'shifting focus'. Individual and institutional philosophies of care were core elements in the registered nurses' focus of work. There was a relationship between staffing adequacy, individual and institutional philosophies of care, and the focus of registered nurse work. These relationships created conditions where the registered nurse would focus on ensuring the delivery of individualised resident care or focus on getting through the routine of care. The relationship between staffing adequacy, philosophies of care and the registered nurses' focus of work remained consistent when staffing adequacy changed. In instances of decreased staffing adequacy, the participants' focus shifted to either maintaining individualised care or focusing on safety. When the registered nurse aimed to change the philosophy of care, an increase in staffing adequacy enabled some aspects of cultural change to commence. The relationships between residents, family and staff were significant contrasting elements within an individualised philosophy of care, and an institutional philosophy of care. In the former, relationships were valued and developed. In the latter, they were benevolent, functional or conflicted. The significance of this study is that it reveals how registered nurses and management personnel in aged care facilities, can create conditions where the relationships between residents, their families and staff, are valued and developed to result in positive care outcomes. It is recommended that future research be conducted to examine the resources required to maintain an individualised approach to the nursing care of residents in aged care facilities.

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: Describes the uptake of postgraduate education, the intent to travel and employment characteristics of NZ registered nurses in their fourth year of practice following registration. Aims to support retention strategies and expand extended career pathways by acknowledging the preferences and pathways selected by early career registered nurses. Analyses responses from 138 registered nurses using data from the longitudinal Graduate e-cohort Study for nurses graduating in the years 2008-2011. Reports summary statistics in percentages/counts along with tests of proportions using the Pearson's chi square test.

Abstract: Examines NZ policy and care demands in aged residential care. Maintains that registered nurses need to understand the socio-political, economic and educational factors that influence care delivery in aged residential care. Presents an overview of the current role of healthcare assistants (HCAs)in aged residential care, based on a review of the existing grey literature, current national policy, DHB contract agreements and NZNO collective agreements.