Abstract: Examines the lived experiences of adults with myasthenia gravis(MG). Uses an interpretive phenomenological approach applying the research methodology of van Manen (1990). Interviews seven people living with MG and records their experiences of the disease. Poses broadly-worded questions about various topics related to MG, that include diagnosis, symptoms, treatments and coping strategies, guided by individual experiences. Reveals by means of thematic analysis that MG affects every aspect of a person?s ?lifeworld?: their sense of time, body, and space and their relationships with others. Highlights three main themes embedded in the data experienced by a person with MG: living with uncertainty, living with weakness and living with change.

Abstract: Huarahi whakatu describes a pathway for recognising the expertise of nurses working in kaupapa Maori mental health services and recommends a professional development programme that can lead to advancement along the pathway. An emphasis on dual competencies – cultural and clinical – underlies the rationale for regarding kaupapa Maori mental health nursing as a sub-specialty. Eight levels of cultural competencies and twelve levels of clinical competencies are used to differentiate career stages and it is recommended that movement from one level to another should be matched by increased remuneration. The report also contains a recommended professional development programme to support the operationalisation of the career pathway.

Abstract: This report presents the findings and recommendations derived from a collaborative action research pilot project undertaken alongside the implementation of two nurse prescribing practicum courses. The students, teachers and supervisors participating in year long Masters' level prescribing practica at Auckland University of Technology (AUT) and Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT) were interviewed about their perceptions, concerns and actions relating the first time implementation of their respective practicum papers. Research findings suggest that the practicum implementation has been successful overall, however there is a need to refine delivery, and to review current funding arrangements.

Abstract: This is the second of a series of research projects undertaken to present the contemporary picture of the nurse workforce and their work in rural settings to inform policy for development of rural healthcare. The document presents the findings of telephone interviews with nurses in different work rural work settings around the country discussing their practice. The analysis identified a framework of four models of nursing practice: two traditional models defined by the institutions employing nurses, and two emerging models defined by the new positions requiring nurses to respond directly to health need.

Abstract: A report on the analysis of data from an in-depth survey designed by Sue Dawson, previously Rural Health Researcher in the Centre for Rural Health, and follow-up interviews. The study purpose was to construct a definition of ?successful design and delivery of rural health services? as a step towards a measurement tool. Participants were grouped as general practitioners (GPs), nurses and community representatives. A format for a participatory approach to evaluation of rural health services is derived from the criteria of success identified, with its relevance for the implementation of the new Government primary health care strategy explicit. This format provided the basis for a subsequent evaluation case study undertaken in a small rural forestry township by the Centre for Rural Health.

Abstract: The NZNO Younger Nurse survey examined the characteristics of younger nurse members of NZNO (aged under 30) in order to identify potential recruitment and retention strategies for these nurses, and provide information on how best to support younger members to become involved in NZNO activities.
The findings indicate that while most younger nurses enjoy their work and find it rewarding, they also face a range of challenges in the workplace due to their age ?including bullying and poor choice of shifts. Many younger nurses do not feel appropriately paid for the work they do and believe there are insufficient nurses to provide safe care. Over 10% of younger nurses are considering leaving the nursing profession. Many younger nurses feel the emotional challenge of nursing was more than they anticipated and that their education did not prepare them well to manage this.
A range of recommendations are made including the need to improve undergraduate curriculum content on managing the emotional challenges of nursing, the need to implement clinical supervision for all nurses but particularly for those under 30, the need to develop and implement activities to address bullying in the workplace, and the need to improve pay progression scales in employment contracts.
Further research is required to explore why there is a discrepancy between female and male nurses?postgraduate qualifications by age, the particular needs of younger Indian and South East Asian nurses, the discrepancy between younger nurses and older nurses perceptions of insufficient nurses, and what type of emotional stress younger nurses find most challenging.