SUGGESTIONS FOR IMPROVING THE N.Z. NURSING SERVICE

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 22917, 8 April 1949, Page 3

SUGGESTIONS FOR IMPROVING THE N.Z. NURSING SERVICE

(P.A.) NAPIER, April 8. Methods of improving the nursing service in New Zealand were discussed at the annual conference of the New Zealand Registered Nurses' Association yesterday. The introduction of pre-nursing courses into schools, or an extension of the courses where they already existed, was advocated by Miss N. M. Knight, Wellington. She considered that this would not onlv be an active form of recruitment, but would attract the best type of girl to the profession. There were fresh developments in medical science every year and the training syllabus for nurses must be kept up-to date with these advances, said Miss E. R. Bridges, Wellington. More efficient teaching methods should be introduced so that nurses would waste no time while being trained.

Greater emphasis on preventive nursing was suggested by Miss F. J. Cameron. Wellington. Curative work was, of course important, but the speaker considered that the ability of nurses to teach people how to take proper carc of themselves and remain healthy was vital.

Ward nursing staffs could probably be reduced by one in eight bv using parttime employees, said Miss I. J. Martin. Gisborne. There were many tasks now done bv trained nurses which could be done by unskilled personnel. Miss L. M. Banks. Palmerston North, considered that there was a place for male nurses in wards and special departments. Trained male nurses already were filling an important place in hospital routine.