A study of the position of staff sister in a New Zealand hospital

Abstract

The organization and administration of hospital services in New Zealand have been the subject of much comment and debate particularly over recent years. In our nursing services the change ideology is most prevalent and pervasive with traditional modes being questioned, new methods of action being sought and a new face to the profession being drawn up. The planning of such change emphasizes the need for empirical evidence to assist with the justification for change. This study was mounted with such a need in mind, particularly in order to contribute to the understanding of a practical problem facing the nursing service in this country. It was not, however, intended to be a simple "fact finding exercise" but was designed to be of value and to be interpreted, in a sociological sense. To this end the writer met with Professor Robb (Sociologist), administrators in the Nursing Division of the Department of Health, a representative of the New Zealand Registered Nurses' Association and a senior nursing administrator from Wellington public Hospital. From several problems discussed the issue of the role of the Staff Sister as a registered nurse was chosen as a broad research area. Members of the committee expressed interest in knowing more about the Staff Sister whom they saw as a 'middle manager' on the ward, particularly how she managed her administrative/service responsibilities. Such a study gave ample scope for sociological interest.