Abstract: Interviews 14 participants, 10 older and experienced health professionals, and four managers. Describes the lived experience of health professionals ageing at work, and of the managers interacting with them. Demonstrates that the ability of older practitioners to adapt to meet the ongoing physical demands of practice and their shifting workplace environment determines whether they will be valued at work and remain in their roles.

Abstract: Examines NZ registered nurses' experiences of aggression and violence and the impact of aggression management training (AMT) on their experiences. Collects data using an internet survey incorporating Collins' Attitudes Towards Aggressive Behaviours Questionnaire. Rates the effect of participation in AMT on exposure to aggression or violence and its impact on attitudes towards aggression and violence.

Abstract: The use of massage by nurses is a popular activity in many fields of nursing practice. The last ten to fifteen years have seen a rising popularity in the literature. Whilst the literature within nursing is plentiful it often does not present the empirical evidence necessary to support nursing actions. The objective of this analysis is to present the extant literature discussing soft tissue massage from a Western health perspective. Massage has first been contextualised as an ancient as well as modern healing activity. There is evidence of early modern medical interest in the therapeutic benefits of massage for a number of ailments. From this contextual perspective it is then possible to track the evolution of modern complementary health practices since 1980, and the professional and practical issues surrounding their use. Against the backdrop of twenty-first century health care there is increased evidence of the importance of maintaining the human aspect of caring, and massage is seen as an ideal way to provide this. The author argues that the discipline of modern nursing must increase its awareness of the empirical evidence around the use of massage, to provide safe and effective nursing care. This physiological and psychological evidence is presented and critiqued, based on the principles of evidence-based practice. This critique has enabled some sound research-based practical statements on the effects of massage to be made. These statements will enhance the practice of massage within a nursing context. The final part of the journey has been to explore the actual practice of massage within nursing, including the current use of massage by a sample of New Zealand nurses. The educational opportunities have also been presented, alongside some main professional issues. Massage can now be viewed as a legitimate nursing tool that has value in a range of nursing settings by enhancing the quality of patient care. The techniques are easy to learn, simple to perform and do not add undue workload to nurses. The author notes that there is a considerable amount of literature to support this, but the quest for further knowledge cannot be ignored.

Abstract: There has been considerable public debate on the range of complementary health practices throughout the western world, perhaps especially in Australia, United States and Europe. Most often, the research critique of these practices is restricted to quantitative or non-user qualitative research methodologies. Consequently, there is a significant gap in the research profile of complementary health services that need to be addressed particularly in view of the rapid and ongoing increase in the use of complementary services, even in the face of sometimes adverse media publicity. This paper demonstrates the contribution that phenomenologically-based research can make to fill this lacuna by explicating, in detail, the client experience of a complementary health practice. The paper explores patient experience of a ginger compress, as applied by anthroposophically trained nurses, to demonstrate various therapeutic effects. Four key themes emerged including an increase in warmth and internal activity in the major organs of the body, changes in thought-life and sensory perception along with a greater sense of well-being and self-focus with the perception of clearer personal boundaries. These themes, emerging from a patient sample in New Zealand, compared favourably to the Filderklinik Study completed in 1992 in a large German state hospital.

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: Explains how assisted dying legislation and subsequent implementation impacts upon practice and policy for nurses in NZ. Enrols 10 participants working in a range of end-of-life care settings to participate in qualitative research though narrative inquiry and grounded within a social constructivist paradigm. Conducts interviews two to three months prior to the enactment of the End-of-Life Choice Act.

Abstract: This book presents the reflective account of an actual nursing practice situation (a woman living with chronic asthma).The author provides a descriptive narrative and then delves deeper into the narrative to obtain greater understanding of what she calls “strife” in chronic illness and the best nursing practice to assist its resolution.