Nursing practice in the changing health care environment: "just keep going until you see it right"

Abstract

The aim of this research study is to examine how change in the health care system has affected the practice of experienced Registered Nurses. The methodology for this study utilised a qualitative research method of analysis, grounded theory, and included semi-structured interviews as the method of data collection. The results indicate that change is an obstacle to nurses and affects the practice context and therefore affects nursing practice. Concern was expressed by participants about the safety of the patient; the changing role of the nurse and patient; the masking and distance of management; and the effect of short sighted policy on nursing practice. In the changing environment the nurse experiences a hesitation in power and this precludes the nurse from becoming an active participant in change initiatives. Recent policy documents indicate that change in the health care system in New Zealand is set to continue as a process of managed evolution. Further research is recommended to examine change and highlight areas of commonality between management and nursing personnel for more effective change management.