Practical insights for gathering of Northland nurses

NorthTec’s fourth annual Nursing Showcase earlier this week, which also celebrated the International Year of the Nurse, attracted around 50 professionals from the primary, community and acute nursing sectors in Northland, the agenda including discussion of research initiatives that contribute to the future of nursing in Te Tai Tokerau.

NorthTec’s nursing pathway manager, Bev McKay, said it was an opportunity to demonstrate the work nurses do through evidence-based practice.

“We are celebrating the research nurses undertake to improve the quality of care in our communities, and the network and support alliance between nursing groups in Northland,” she said.

“This year we recognise the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife, which is a chance to acknowledge the leadership that nurses contribute to improving health services.”

NorthTec nursing tutor Lizzie CarrollThom said the showcase was about sharing quality evidence-based practice generated by the extremely professional nurses of Northland in a safe and supportive environment.

Twelve presentations covered topics inspired by the themes of leadership and development, resourcing and education, valuing the contribution of nurses and sustainability.

The Northland DHB’s injury prevention co-ordinator, Elliot Judkins, presented research he had completed for his Master of

Nursing degree in relation to disaster management.

“This showcase is a great networking opportunity to keep up-to-date with best practice, and to share evidence-based practice,” he said.

Third year NorthTec nursing student Hani Sipu presented on the importance of rongoa¯ Ma¯ ori. “It’s almost like it’s hidden, and it needs to be brought to the forefront. I wanted to draw attention to plant a seed in nurses’ minds to be more aware of it.”