Abstract: There is concern over the standards of nursing practice skill acquisition in undergraduate programs. One of the issues relevant to this is which of the multitude of nursing practice skills to include in an undergraduate program. Previous research by Alavi, Loh and Reilly (1991) has been modified and used in clinical settings in the New Zealand context in order to address this concern. Competency level of the most important skills identified by clinicians was also sought in order to aid development of a skill curriculum for Whitireia Community Polytechnic. There is a strong theoretical support for the preparation of student nurses in skills laboratories prior to clinical learning experience in order to maximise learning. Further directions for study are covered with discussion of the implications for teaching from the research findings

Abstract: An interdisciplinary (nursing-medicine) collaboration in a qualitative descriptive research project undertaken in the Wellington School of Medicine with New Zealand Health Research Council funding. The purpose was to inform the practice of nursing and medical practitioners. A group of patients were interviewed in their homes. Their experience of having a diagnosis of hypertension and prescription of long-term treatment requiring adjustment in their lives and the lives of their families is presented as themes.

Abstract: The New Zealand Nurses organsation agreed to become the accrediting body for nurses in NZ in 1994 and Susanne Trim, NZNO Professional Nursing Adviser, worked with the National Practice Nurse Section to develop and pilot a model for accreditation.A consultative process was used to develop a framework and process during 1995 and this was unanimously endorsed in the April 1996 National Practice Nurse Section AGM.Implementation occurred from May 1996 to March 1998 with a comprehensive evaluation of the model collection of data from practice nurse applicants, non-applicants, the Practice Nurse Accreditation Board, National PN Sections and the project co-ordinator.The number of applications received exceeded expectations 212 (14% NZNO practice nurse members). There was a high level of satisfaction expressed by applicants.A number of content issues were identified during the pilot as needing review, clarification and amendment. These were of a minor nature rather than recommended changes to the structure itself.The accreditation Board processes were modified part way through the implementation to improve efficiencies and were found to be satisfactory. The training model and timing were appropriate.Administrative support and central co-ordination through designated NZNO staff member proved to be time consuming but vital.Practice Nurses embraced accreditation however as a group they have some minor unique characteristics. This should caution NZNO to proceed gradually with accreditation of other Section Nurses and monitor progress closely