Abstract: The low numbers of nurses attracted to work in mental health is a concern particularly with the increased demand for mental health services. Strategies are required to increase recruitment to this less popular area of nursing to ensure that a high quality of care is provided for people suffering from mental illness. The World Health Organisation is aware that this area of health has been neglected and that it is time to promote mental health. This study aimed to examine the influences involved in nurses choosing to work in this area. A descriptive survey using a questionnaire was given to seven groups of new graduates enrolled in the New Graduate Mental Health Nursing programme through five educational institutes. At the time of writing there were no published studies around this topic in New Zealand. This study will attempt to inform nurses, the Nursing Council of New Zealand, tertiary institutions and the government of New Zealand that there is evidence of a need to develop and change practices to address the predicted workforce decline.

Abstract: This story follows the nursing care of a woman in her mid forties, diagnosed with breast cancer. The case study follows her from the diagnosis and decision to undergo a mastectomy, and the requirements of nursing care through that process. It discusses the emotional and physical preparation necessary for surgery, perioperative care, multidisciplinary care, and issues around body image post-mastectomy.

Abstract: This article describes the implementation of a nurse-led, dedicated support network and service for children with a diagnosis of retinoblastoma and their families. Nurses with an interest in retinoblastoma at an Auckland Ophthalmology Department realised that the service provided was not meeting the needs of patients and families, particularly since the numbers had increased over the past two years. This article outlines the development of a cost-effective approach that improved the service.

Abstract: This descriptive case study was undertaken to provide an account of chemotherapy practice in a nurse-led clinic located within a rural New Zealand area. The researcher, an oncology nurse specialist, worked alongside colleagues for thirteen months to enable practice development. This clinic developed out of a need to have services closer to rural patients in order to address issues of equity, access, care integration and the fiscal and social constraints associated with the cancer burden of care. Capturing the range of data applicable to this case; the ability to conceptualise it as a service within its context was possible using case study research methods. Four nurses involved in the chemotherapy clinic were participants in this study. The findings of this study reveal that what could be perceived as barriers to outcomes and practice can in essence be turned into opportunities to develop new ways of caring for the patient and supporting nursing practice. These nurses view their practice as safe within the clinic despite resource constraints. They work in many ways to support each other and to cushion the patient from the impact of situational and contextual influences. Nursing practice was shown to evolve as a direct result of internal and external influences which were the impetus for nurses taking responsibility for their own competency. This study also explored what it meant to be an experienced nurse but novice in a speciality practice. It challenges previously held assumptions that, to deliver chemotherapy successfully, a nurse needs to be operating from a previously held body of oncology nursing knowledge. Many challenges are faced on a day to day basis in a rural practice environment to just maintain consistent care and promote good patient outcomes. The nurses are well aware of their role in contributing to patients' quality of life and the roles they take to meet the growing needs of the patient as a consumer. This study delves into the multifarious nature of this nurse-led clinic and discusses the processes and relationships that are forged to deliver care.

Abstract: Investigates nurses' catheter management practices, by means of an audit, as documented in a newly-introduced self-administered indwelling catheter-management checklist incorporating four components of catheter care in a catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) prevention bundle. Identifies these components of the bundle of care as: minimisation of inappropriate catheter use, aseptic insertion of catheters, adherence to catheter maintenance guidelines, and ongoing review and evaluation of catheter necessity. Shows that implementation of care components decreases bacteriuria rates and CAUTI when used together in standardised clinical checklists and performed collectively by nurses. Employs a quantitative research design as part of a mixed-methods study conducted at two surgical wards in a public hospital in Auckland where 50 nurses completed 175 checklists.

Abstract: Performs a qualitative study exploring the use of a pictogram developed by nurses during a rapid-access chest pain clinic consultation, to assist patient communication about their chest pain. Interviews 10 patients, 5 Maori and 5 non-Maori, for their feedback on the pictogram's usefulness. Considers the utility of the pictogram for both patients and nurses leading the chest pain clinic.