ORCID Profile
0000-0001-7611-4272
Current Organisation
James Cook University
Does something not look right? The information on this page has been harvested from data sources that may not be up to date. We continue to work with information providers to improve coverage and quality. To report an issue, use the Feedback Form.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 27-10-2019
DOI: 10.1111/JNU.12440
Abstract: Registered nurses and midwives require a degree of genomic literacy if they are to adequately communicate with other healthcare professionals and provide optimal care to patients, their families, and the community. Several studies have been conducted internationally to assess the genomic literacy of nurses however, the genomic literacy of Australian registered nurses and midwives has not been investigated. The aim of this study was to measure the genomic literacy of Australian registered nurses and midwives through assessing participants' understandings of genomic concepts most critical to nursing and midwifery practice, as well as their perceived knowledge and attitude towards genomics in nursing and midwifery practice. Cross-sectional survey of Australian registered nurses and midwives using the Genomic Nursing Concept Inventory (GNCI Descriptive and inferential statistical techniques were used to calculate the total GNCI Most respondents worked as clinicians (71.4%) in a hospital or hospital-based setting (61.8%). Most registered nurses (80.5%) and midwives (97.2%) reported that genetics was relevant to clinical practice however, over 80% of registered nurses and midwives believed their knowledge of genetics was poor or average. Genomic knowledge was assessed using the GNCI The genomic literacy of registered nurses and midwives in Australia is low. More must be done to ensure Australian registered nurses and midwives have an adequate level of genomic literacy to provide optimal care to patients, their families, and the community. Modern medicine requires a healthcare workforce that is literate in genomics. Findings from this study may serve as the catalyst to improve the genomic literacy of the Australian nursing and midwifery workforce, allowing for improved health outcomes for in iduals and the wider Australian public.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.COLEGN.2009.07.001
Abstract: This paper describes the preliminary phase of a longitudinal research project involving students enrolling in three different pre-registration nursing programs in two locations in rural Victoria, Australia. This initial report discusses the demographic characteristics, entry pathway, course choice and career aspirations of students enrolled in these programs at both the main rural c us and an outreach satellite school of a major Australian university. Demographic findings from this study demonstrate that most of participants were female, aged between 18 and 50 years. The majority of participants resided in non-metropolitan areas and were enrolled in the flagship Bachelor of Nursing Program, with a large number having entered their chosen course of study via a non-traditional pathway. Career projections reported by participants demonstrate the intention of those from non-metropolitan areas to remain in this location on completion of their studies. Participants indicated their preferred areas of future practice to be in midwifery, emergency and paediatrics. Overall the findings of this part of the study summarise the characteristics of students entering nursing courses via various mechanisms. Exploration and comparison of these characteristics raise a number of issues for discussion, particularly in relation to conversion of level 2 (enrolled) nurses to level 1 (registered) status, and intended career specialisation and location of practice for students of nursing in rural areas.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 22-07-2020
DOI: 10.1111/NUP.12274
Abstract: Care left undone, interchangeably referred to as missed care, unfinished nursing care and task incompletion, is pervasive in contemporary healthcare systems. Care left undone can result in adverse outcomes for the patient, nurse and organization. The rhetoric that surrounds care left undone infers it is a contemporary nursing phenomenon however, a seventeenth-century Spanish nursing treatise, Instruccion de Enfermeros (Instructions for Nurses), challenges this assumption. Instruccion de Enfermeros was an instructional guide that was written for members of the Congregation of Bernardino de Obregon who worked as nurses at the Madrid General Hospital. The treatise provides a historical commentary on the daily roles, responsibilities and working conditions of the Obregonian nurses. Its content and context suggest the Obregonian nursing resource was consistently time poor due to a confluence of internal and external stressors. Consequently, the Obregonians were under considerable role strain resulting in inferior patient care. This article explores the antecedents of care left undone through a historical lens using exemplars from the 1625 edition of Instruccion de Enfermeros. Factors contributing to care left undone in Obregonian nursing will then be examined to offer insights into the similarities between what a nurse suffered 400 years ago and what exists in contemporary nursing practice.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-04-2009
DOI: 10.1007/S10943-009-9252-Z
Abstract: There is a substantial number of Iranian war veterans, exposed to sulfur mustard, who suffer from serious long term progressive health problems involving their respiratory organs, eyes, and skin. Little is known, however, about these casualties' experiences of living with the consequences of sulfur mustard poisoning. This qualitative study aims to provide greater insight into how war veterans live with the consequences of the poisoning and involved 17 Iranian war veterans who had been poisoned by sulfur mustard during the Iran-Iraq conflict. Each participant was interviewed using a semi-structured interview schedule and the data generated through this process was analyzed using constant comparative data analysis technique. Data analysis resulted in "religious beliefs and practices" as a main category, which included two sub-categories: religious value centered life and religious support. Findings suggest that religious belief assists veterans to accept the impact of poisoning on their lives and adapt their lifestyles accordingly, to participate in religious social activities and feel socially supported, and to be hopeful about the future and live their lives as fully as possible.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 07-2010
DOI: 10.3109/13561821003624630
Abstract: Nurses represent the largest occupational group of health care professionals in Australia. The ratio of nurses to population is relatively consistent, unlike other health care professional groups (including medical doctors and allied health staff) whose numbers decline as population density and distance from metropolitan areas increases. Nurses working in areas where other health care professionals are limited or absent have expanded scopes of practice with their work being more generalist than specialist. The role of nurses in remote and isolated areas of Queensland, Australia was the focus of a commissioned multi-case research project. Findings reported in this paper relate to the position of registered nurses as part of an interprofessional team. These findings indicated that, in some instances, local health care teams were limited to a single nurse and Indigenous health care worker/s, while in others the teams were more erse. In all cases collegial support was available either locally or via telecommunication technology. Understanding the role of each team member, having useful strategies to enhance communication and work collaboratively were identified as essential criteria for "good practice".
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-05-2018
DOI: 10.1111/JAN.13326
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.COLEGN.2011.08.001
Abstract: Rural registered nurses' experiences of advanced clinical nursing practice were explored whilst they were enrolled in an advanced primary care course of study. Thirty-two nurses employed in rural health services in Victoria, Australia, studied advanced practice nursing by distance education with a clinical component. At course conclusion, focus groups and a quantitative on-line survey were conducted to explore outcomes. Nurses reported positive self-perceptions of their educational preparation with scores of >7/10 for competence, confidence, preparedness for advanced practice and job satisfaction. Focus group discussions concurred with positive survey results. The course was valuable in developing skills and knowledge, enabling more holistic patient care. The main themes that emerged related to the advancement of the nurse as a professional, and enhancement of patient care. Within their scope of practice, nurses assessed, diagnosed and treated minor patient illness presentations either independently or collaboratively with medical advice. The context of rural health services dictated practice and levels of autonomy. Nurses perceived the new role reduced an overload of medical work, whilst increasing patients' access to care. As a result of the course 24% of participants reported a change in their work role. Nurses employed in rural health services reported positive potential for advanced collaborative practice in rural health care, in association with medical professionals. Defined role boundaries, role responsibilities and dedicated advanced practice positions will be required to achieve implementation of the role.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 30-09-2020
DOI: 10.1007/S40979-020-00055-5
Abstract: Academic misconduct is a problem of growing concern across the tertiary education sector. While plagiarism has been the most common form of academic misconduct, the advent of software programs to detect plagiarism has seen the problem of misconduct simply mutate. As universities attempt to function in an increasingly complex environment, the factors that contribute to academic misconduct are unlikely to be easily mitigated. A multiple case study approach examined how academic misconduct is perceived in universities in in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom via interviews with academics and administrators. The findings show that academic misconduct is a systemic problem that manifests in various ways and requires similarly erse approaches to management. Greater consistency in policies and procedures, including a focus on preventative education for both staff and students, is key to managing the mutations of academic misconduct that continue to plague the higher education sector globally.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 12-08-2009
Abstract: Abstract This paper explores the use of storyline in grounded theory research and potentially other research methodologies that seek to explain phenomena. Storyline as a research strategy has had limited discussion in the literature. Although stories have been used as both a source of data and a means of reporting research findings, the use of storyline is underutilised and undeveloped as a method of constructing and conveying grounded theory. Construction of a theory that is grounded in the data and not influenced by external concepts is possible through the use of storyline. In presenting grounded theory in the form of a storyline, the nurse researcher is able to explain and describe the theoretical contribution in the context of nursing knowledge. Theoretical precedence, variation, limited gaps, the use of evidence and appropriate style are characteristics of an effective storyline. As both a means and an end in itself, storyline enhances the development, presentation and comprehension of the outcomes of grounded theory research in nursing.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 08-2019
Abstract: A number of resources exist to assist registered nurses in Australia to determine their scope of practice however, the ability of a professional nurse to expand his or her practice is highly context dependent. This article reports on barriers and enablers to expanding scope of practice, as identified by registered nurses across Australia. A cross-sectional survey administered online in 2016 returned 1,205 useable submissions. Results indicated that nurses wishing to expand their practice felt supported to do so by nursing colleagues and were aware of professional and regulatory documents relating to expanding scope of practice. Less support for this process was evident from other health professionals or employers. Respondents also indicated that they were motivated to expand their scope by professional satisfaction, potential for career advancement, and the desire to meet health service user's needs. The majority of respondents identified barriers to expanding scope of practice, including lack of remuneration and the absence of supportive guidelines. Respondents in the early stage of their careers were more likely to perceive organizational support for expanding their scope of practice. When required to expand their role, the majority of respondents indicated that they had undertaken additional training or accessed various resources to guide them in this process. Barriers to expanding nursing scope of practice can result in underutilization of the one of the greatest resources in the health care system. This article identifies a number of strategies that can facilitate role expansion to ensure that nursing continues to make a significant contribution to positive health service outcomes in Australia.
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2010
DOI: 10.1071/AH09743
Abstract: Objective.To examine the role of the registered nurse in remote and isolated areas of Queensland, the Northern Territory, South Australia and Western Australia and to illustrate the impact of the burden of disease on nursing practice. Data sources.A literature search was undertaken using electronic databases and the grey literature (including policy documents, project reports and position descriptions). Data synthesis.The role of the nurse in remote areas is erse, and varies according to the context of practice. Although some states and territories offer formal programs to prepare nurses for the role, it is unclear whether this is routinely provided. The burden of disease is higher in remote Australia, and although nurses work to reduce the burden, the need to provide primary care can be at the expense of primary health care. Conclusions.Whilst the nature of nursing practice is influenced by many factors, considerable agreement exists between states and territories around the role of the registered nurses in remote and isolated communities. The higher burden of disease in remote and isolated areas of Australia impacts on nursing practice, and nurses are uniquely placed to assist in reducing the burden of disease. Greater agreement around what constitutes ‘remote’ is needed. What is known about the topic?Many papers have reported on the difficulties encountered by registered nurses in remote and isolated practice however, there is a dearth of information describing the role of registered nurses in remote or isolated Australian communities. What does this paper add?This review describes the erse role of nurses and their role in addressing the burden of disease in remote and isolated Australia. Comparison between states and territories highlights differences in preparation for the role. What are the implications for practitioners?National agreement is needed around preparation for practice, conditions of work, and what constitutes ‘remote’. Greater utilisation of the nursing workforce in remote and isolated areas would assist in addressing the burden of disease.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.COLEGN.2012.02.004
Abstract: The purpose of pre-service nursing education programs is to prepare competent graduates who are able to function as safe, professional registered nurses. An extensive element of these programs is the teaching of physical assessment skills, with most programs educating students to perform over 120 such skills. Previous research from North America suggests that the majority of skills taught to nurses in their pre-service programs are not used in practice. As part of a larger study, an online survey was used to explore use of 121 physical assessment skills by Australian nurses. Recruitment occurred via mailed invitation to members of the Australian Nursing Federation. Data were extracted from 1220 completed questionnaires returned by nurses who were mostly employed in New South Wales, were female and experienced nurses. Respondents indicated that they used only 34% of skills routinely. Results reinforce evidence found in the literature that many of the skills taught to nurses are either not used at all (35.5%) or are used rarely (31%). These findings have implications for the teaching of physical assessment skills in pre-service nursing programs, and raise questions about the value of extensive skills teaching in the context of contemporary health care. Further research into barriers to the use of physical assessment skills in nursing and the need for comprehensive skills preparation for the generalist nurse is likely to offer some solutions to these questions.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 19-08-2020
DOI: 10.1111/JONM.13117
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2013
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 19-05-2018
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 22-07-2010
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-03-2011
DOI: 10.1111/J.1466-7657.2011.00894.X
Abstract: The purpose of this paper was to report on the delivery of a series of seminars in Sarawak, East Malaysia using a unique hands-on approach to the teaching of skills in research and evidence-based health care. These seminars proved to be a meaningful and memorable experience for both the facilitators and participants. The international push for the delivery of evidence-based health care has resulted in a growing need for the teaching of skills in the conduct and application of research. Nurses and other health-care professionals recognize that they have a responsibility to contribute to and maintain an evidence base for practice, yet are often stymied by a lack of professional development opportunities. The knowledge necessary to understand research, along with skills in the conduct of research, can be made accessible to health-care professionals in erse locations. The experience reported in this paper demonstrates that opportunities exist to provide education about research and evidence-based practice in an engaging, active and meaningful way.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 14-09-2018
DOI: 10.1080/10376178.2018.1520605
Abstract: In respect of professional nursing, the term scope of practice is regularly used, yet is often poorly defined both in Australia and internationally. This study explores the determinants of scope of practice from a national s le of Australian registered nurses using an online survey (Scope-QAu). This paper reports on two parts of a large cross-sectional survey wherein 1231 registered nurses in Australia provided data on how they determined their scope of practice. Scope of practice in the Australian nursing context is influenced by a range of professional publications, guidelines and standards, as well as professional peers and one's own judgement. Findings reveal that few demographic characteristics predicted the way nurses determined their own scope of practice. Nurses commonly relied upon three professional publications, peers and line managers, to establish their in idual scope of practice. Impact statement: Registered nurses do not rely solely on professional guidelines or regulatory frameworks when determining their scope of practice.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2020
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.1177/00469580221078515
Abstract: The use of humanoid robot technologies within global healthcare settings is rapidly evolving however, the potential of robots in health promotion and health education is not established. The aim of this study was to explore the impact of a social humanoid robot on in iduals’ knowledge of influenza (flu) prevention and attitudes towards influenza vaccination. A multi-methods approach involving pre and post-test questions and interviews was used. The study was undertaken in a publicly funded tertiary level hospital in northern Queensland, Australia. Of the 995 participants, the majority were visitors (53.07%). The mean age of the participants was 42.25 (SD=19.54) years. Based on the three knowledge questions that were posed at the two-point interactions of participants with the humanoid robot ‘Pepper’, the results showed that there was a significant difference in the correct responses pre- and post-test regarding the best way to avoid getting the flu (Exact McNemar significance probability .0001), how long the flu virus can live outside the human body ( p .0001) and the length of time for handwashing to be effective against spreading germs ( p .0001). The results also showed that there was a significant difference in attitudes associated with influenza vaccination when pre-test was compared to post-test ( p=.0019). Interaction of the participants with the humanoid robot demonstrated immediate knowledge gains and attitudinal change that suggests that humanoid robots may be an important intervention for health promotion in prevention of influenza and other respiratory viruses.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 25-03-2011
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 04-2007
Abstract: The interview as a data collection tool is an essential component of qualitative research. Many nurses are familiar with the process of interviewing through its use in the practice environment however, in-depth interviewing for the purpose of research is a unique process. The ability to conduct an effective in-depth interview requires skill in the use of specific techniques, in particular when interviewing people from other cultures. A number of factors specific to the researcher, the participant, and the research context can affect the interview procedure. As global margins diminish, nurse researchers will increasingly find themselves working with people from ethnic groups that are different from the dominant culture. This article discusses strategies to improve the interview process in such circumstances. Techniques to enhance the process, along with avoidable potential pitfalls, will be illustrated using an ex le of conducting research with participants from the culturally erse environment of Malaysian Borneo.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 27-10-2008
Abstract: Since the emergence of nursing as a distinct discipline, its status has mirrored that of women in society in general. As a predominantly female profession, nursing has been subject to oppressive forces that have affected women at various stages of history. Despite improvements in the standing of both women and nursing during the past century, nursing has still failed to achieve its full potential. In Malaysia, sociocultural factors combine to further limit the development of the profession. This article explores how such factors merge with the oppression of nursing globally to influence the status of nursing in Malaysia.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 22-08-2006
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 13-05-2010
DOI: 10.1111/J.1471-6712.2009.00719.X
Abstract: This exploratory, descriptive study investigates the experiences of Iranian war veterans living with chronic disease acquired as a result of chemical warfare. Sulphur mustard (SM) is considered one of the most important agents of chemical warfare and was widely used during the Iran-Iraq conflict in 1980-1988. There are approximately 100 000 Iranian SM casualties who suffer from serious long-term progressive health problems involving their respiratory organs, eyes and skin. Seventeen male Iranian war veterans aged between 30 and 59 years and four victims' family members participated in the study. Data was generated during in idual in-depth interviews that used open-ended questions. Grounded theory techniques, including the constant comparative method of concurrent data generation and analysis, were employed in the analysis of data. Preliminary results indicate two main thematic categories: social isolation and physical disability. It is argued that a lack of knowledge about the outcomes of SM poisoning, physical restrictions and difficulty in adjusting socially decreases war veterans' functional capacity and levels of independence.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 28-09-2021
DOI: 10.1002/PRI.1922
Abstract: The flexible exercise participation program (FEPP) is a novel intervention developed to enable in iduals with multiple sclerosis (MS) participate and progress in an exercise or sport of their choice. The FEPP is underpinned by guidelines on aerobic exercise for in iduals with MS and is supported by a physiotherapist using behaviour change techniques. As part of a FEPP feasibility trial, the aim of this nested study was to explore the experience of participation in the FEPP from the perspective of in iduals with MS. The objectives were to (i) determine the acceptability of the FEPP and (ii) identify recommendations for improvement. A mixed methods study using a sequential explanatory design was conducted. Part I consisted of a quantitative participant survey. Survey data were analysed descriptively using SPSS and informed the protocol for part II – qualitative interviews. Interview data were analysed thematically using NVivo. Part III consisted of integration of quantitative and qualitative data to allow greater explanation of survey responses. In iduals with MS who had participated in the FEPP feasibility trial were invited to take part in the study. The FEPP was highly acceptability to the 10 participants. Five themes emerged to describe the experience of participating in the FEPP: (i) exploring exercise boundaries, (ii) measuring energy, (iii) acknowledging accountability, (iv) adjusting to exercising in a pandemic and (v) sustaining participation. Recommendations for improving the FEPP included changes to energy level monitoring and incorporation of peer support mechanisms. Participants found the FEPP highly acceptable and valued the flexibility to choose their own activity and the health professional support. Based on participant recommendations, future versions of the FEPP will include daily rather than weekly monitoring of exercise and peer support to further enable in iduals with MS to find the right balance with exercise and sport.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-09-2010
Publisher: International Federation of Infection Control
Date: 26-01-2012
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-2009
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 24-11-2012
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1155/2016/8569602
Abstract: Robots, including robotic seals, have been used as an alternative to therapies such as animal assisted therapy in the promotion of health and social wellbeing of older people in aged care facilities. There is limited research available that evaluates the effectiveness of robot therapies in these settings. The aim of this study was to identify, explore, and describe the impact of the use of Paro robotic seals in an aged care facility in a regional Australian city. A qualitative, descriptive, exploratory design was employed. Data were gathered through interviews with the three recreational therapists employed at the facility who were also asked to maintain logs of their interactions with the Paro and residents. Data were transcribed and thematically analysed. Three major themes were identified from the analyses of these data: “a therapeutic tool that’s not for everybody,” “every interaction is powerful,” and “keeping the momentum.” Findings support the use of Paro as a therapeutic tool, revealing improvement in emotional state, reduction of challenging behaviours, and improvement in social interactions of residents. The potential benefits justify the investment in Paro, with clear evidence that these tools can have a positive impact that warrants further exploration.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 02-2013
DOI: 10.5172/CONU.2013.43.2.225
Abstract: The nursing profession has experienced significant change over the last 100 years. Consequently, the workforce of the 21st century is a erse entity that is edging toward the specialization of nurses in a specific clinical setting. In such an environment, a common knowledge base is demanded of nurses - a factor that has affected the development of second level, or enrolled nurses (ENs). The forces at play raise questions about nursing roles and scopes of practice. The establishment of education pathways that promote career development has been the stimulus for conversations about the effectiveness of the transition of EN to registered nurse (RN). This paper presents a review of the literature that identifies and explores common emerging themes (making the move from EN adapting to Bachelor of Nursing transitioning to RN) associated with this transition through the process of undertaking baccalaureate studies in nursing.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2013
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Date: 08-12-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.COLEGN.2013.10.002
Abstract: This paper aims to explore and discuss the role that ANMAC and the accreditation standards play in pre-registration nursing education nationally. The context of the discussion is situated in the continuum of events that mark the accreditation of nursing education in Australia. The National Registration and Accreditation Scheme has given rise to significant challenges related to the accreditation of nursing programs of education in Australia. Given the importance of accreditation to the quality of nursing education, ANMAC in its appointed role as accrediting authority, must fill the position rather than occupy it. Enhancing transparency and effectiveness is central to ensuring accreditation facilitates quality in nursing education. Given ANMAC's key position, further work is needed in developing a broad base of expertise by fostering scholarly output in the substantive area of nursing accreditation. There is a concerning lack of research centred on the accreditation of programs of nursing education along with the processes associated with it. This problem is not restricted to the Australian context but also extends internationally. In this context, the expertise of accreditors ought to be questioned along with the processes ANMAC use to identify in idual capability. As such, the selection of experts needs to be articulated clearly by ANMAC along with the ownership of introducing a research culture into accreditation.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEPR.2017.04.011
Abstract: Bullying in health workplaces has a negative impact on nurses, their families, multidisciplinary teams, patient care and the profession. This paper compares the experiences of Australian and UK baccalaureate nursing students in relation to bullying and harassment during clinical placement. A secondary analysis was conducted on two primary cross-sectional studies of bullying experiences of Australian and UK nursing students. Data were collected using the Student Experience of Bullying during Clinical Placement (SEBDCP) questionnaire and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The total s le was 833 Australian and 561 UK students. Australian nursing students experienced a higher rate of bullying (50.1%) than UK students (35.5%). Students identified other nurses as the main perpetrators (Aust 53%, UK 68%), although patients were the main source of physical acts of bullying. Few bullied students chose to report the episode/s. The main reason for non-reporting was fear of being victimised. Sadly, some students felt bullying and harassment was 'part of the job'. A culture of bullying in nursing persists internationally. Nursing students are vulnerable and can question their future in the 'caring' profession of nursing after experiencing and/or witnessing bullying during clinical placement. Bullying requires a zero tolerance approach. Education providers must develop clearer policies and implement procedures to protect students - the future nursing workforce.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 29-08-2013
DOI: 10.1111/IJN.12162
Abstract: Students of nursing enter their programmes of study with preconceived ideas of what a career in their chosen profession will entail. The literature suggests that images from the media and past experiences contribute to these perceptions. Although it is positive images of the profession that will usually attract an in idual to a career in nursing, often more negative perceptions will direct students away from potentially rewarding areas of specialization. This paper describes career projections of nursing students enrolled in the first year of four preservice nursing programmes at the rural c us of one Australian university. Part of a larger study, the data reported here indicate that most respondents intend to practice in the areas of midwifery, paediatrics and emergency nursing. Oncology, community nursing, aged care and mental health nursing all ranked poorly across three rounds of surveys. These findings have implications for practicing nurses and nurse educators who seek to dispel inaccurate images of these important specializations.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2008
Abstract: This paper explores memoing in the context of qualitative research methodologies. The functions of memos in the research process are discussed and a number of techniques for employing memo writing to enhance the research experience and outcomes are examined. Memoing is often discussed in the literature as a technique employed in grounded theory research, yet there is limited exploration of the value of memo writing in qualitative methodologies generally. Memoing serves to assist the researcher in making conceptual leaps from raw data to those abstractions that explain research phenomena in the context in which it is examined. Memos can be effectively employed by both the novice and experienced researcher as a procedural and analytical strategy throughout the research process. Data exploration is enhanced, continuity of conception and contemplation is enabled and communication is facilitated through the use of memoing. While guidelines exist to aid in the production and use of memos, memoing remains a flexible strategy wherein the process of construction and nature of content is determined by the preferences and abilities of the researcher and the aims and focus of the specific research study.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.COLEGN.2009.09.001
Abstract: In 1996 Hegney published a seminal review of the literature concerning the status of Australian rural nurses. This article updates and expands that original paper by reporting on an integrative review exploring the same topic area between the years 1996 and 2008. Findings show that definitions of rural nursing are now integrated with those of remote nursing on a continuum of distance and contextual difference. The role and function of rural nurses is examined, along with a discussion of the importance of a primary health care approach in meeting community needs. The influence of social determinants of health is explored in this context. The culture of rural health workplaces in relation to the role and function of rural nurses is also a feature of this review. Research into the rural nursing workforce and, in particular, the recruitment and retention of staff are examined, with the high attrition rate of new or novice rural nurses pinpointed as a common theme in these studies. Important legislative changes that have affected rural nursing practice are also identified. This article concludes with a discussion of the latest research into Australian rural nursing, focusing on education in rural universities and the potential to develop new or novice nurses through the development of supportive relationships.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.COLEGN.2013.05.001
Abstract: Health assessment is a fundamental aspect of the professional nursing role. The teaching of skills in physical assessment is therefore a large component of pre-registration nursing programmes. As the nursing curriculum becomes more crowded with what is deemed to be essential content, there is a need to rationalise what is taught in preparatory nursing programmes to ensure readiness for practice. The study outlined in this paper, as part of a larger project, explored the teaching of physical assessment skills in pre-registration nursing programmes across Australia. Fifty-three academics completed the 121 item online survey, indicating whether each skill was taught with practice, taught with no practice or not taught at all. The results suggest that only half the skills were being taught by more than 80% of the academics and 23 skills (19%) were taught by more than 90%. Of the 121 skills commonly taught--69 skills (57%) were taught with student practice and 29 (24%) were taught with no student practice. The results of this study raise questions about the teaching of physical assessment in pre-registration nursing programmes. The suggestion is not that skills that are used regularly or infrequently should be removed from the curriculum, rather, the authors propose that consideration be given to whether the teaching of skills that are never likely to be used is occurring at the expense of comprehensive mastery of core skills.
No related grants have been discovered for Melanie Birks.