Effective learning about the concept of pain from a perioperative clinical rotation.

One of the major concepts that permeates all of nursing practice is the assessment and treatment of pain. Although the concept is simple in statement, its practice has proven to be difficult for seasoned nurses for a variety of reasons. New graduate nurses may have particular difficulty because of their lack of experience with pain. Forty-nine baccalaureate students provided qualitative statements about patients' pain after participating in a 6- to 8-week perioperative clinical rotation. Findings from this study show how the perioperative setting can enhance student nurses' understanding of pain and promote more effective and proactive pain management interventions.

Preparing for the 21st century: diversity in nursing education, research, and practice.

This article presents issues surrounding nursing research, education, and practice as they relate to the changing demographics in American society. The authors suggest that cultural diversity should be a key element in all components of nursing. They present challenges to nurse researchers, educators, and practitioners regarding the essential need to be sensitive about cultural diversity. They further suggest that the 21st century will emerge with demographic shifts that include larger groups of ethnic individuals and families. These ethnic groups will be both care providers and recipients of care. Recommendations are suggested to prepare for diversity in America health care systems.

Feminism: a perspective for the 21st century.

This article details some of the key elements related to feminism in American society. It suggests that the meaning and significance of a feminist perspective need to be reexamined for their importance and utility in this dynamic and rapidly changing society. A discussion of the meaning of feminism provides a framework for the article. Issues related to cultural diversity and the need for competent health care delivery for all people are some major themes. The other emphasis is related to research and women. Numerous challenges are outlined. A feminist perspective is recommended as a conceptual model through which health care reform can be enhanced. If feminism were embraced, the health status of people would be improved.

Strategic planning in academic nursing.

Dramatic transformations are occurring in higher education. As colleges of nursing compete with other university colleges for limited resources, new strategies are needed to be successful. One university's unique strategic planning process is presented.

Nursing education and research in New Zealand.

Changes in nursing education and health care reform in New Zealand have significantly affected nurses engaged in research. Movement in both undergraduate and graduate educational qualifications has stimulated interest in research about health-care problems including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and substance abuse. Our small descriptive survey indicated that most research is qualitative and focuses on clinical care. Lack of funding, isolation from educational settings, and nurses' lack of confidence in their research abilities are major hindrances to the development of nursing knowledge. Limited publication opportunities further complicate dissemination of research.

Nursing interventions classification: a content analysis of nursing activities in public schools.

Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC) is an effort to describe nursing activities by using a standardized nomenclature of nursing treatments (McCloskey & Bulechek, 1992). Limited research focused on community nursing activities has been included in the Iowa Intervention Project to date. The purpose of this study was to investigate how nursing activities performed by RN baccalaureate students in the public school setting conformed to the activities and interventions classifications proposed by the Iowa Intervention Project. Nursing activities were documented by 40 RNs for 1,774 clients in the schools. Those activities conformed to 25 of the 336 NICs. Findings further demonstrated that pain management was the most frequently used NIC, and patterns of clustering of classifications were also common. Although NIC can be used, the fit is not always strong. Specific recommendations are addressed for strengthening NIC use in the public schools.

Increasing minorities in higher education in nursing: faculty consultation as a strategy.

This article describes some of the issues surrounding cultural diversity in higher education in nursing. The representation of minority faculty in higher education in general, and in nursing education in particular, is inadequate to support the needs of students, faculties, and the institutions. Examples of common concerns and dilemmas faced by minority faculty demonstrate the urgent need for change to enhance the academic environment for minorities. Because the numbers of minority faculty in higher education are unlikely to change substantially within the next few years, the authors present faculty consultation as a strategy to support the cultural diversity mission of the college.

A comparison of nursing implications for elder care in Sweden and the United States.

The number of elderly are increasing at a rapid rate in both Sweden and the United States. Despite differences in governance, size, and health care systems, the two countries share similar problems and, perhaps, similar responses to care of aging persons. International educational exchange of successful interventions can promote better delivery of nursing care in both countries.

Public schools as a clinical setting for RN students.

The challenge to select meaningful clinical sites for RN students is a problem for educators. The significance of the public schools as an initial clinical site, the contribution of RNs to school health programs, student responses, and adaptations to the school setting are presented. Outcomes of the experience will interest nurse educators attempting to provide a professional education for RN to BSN students and provide a service to the community.

Enhancing educational accessibility in rural areas through collaboration.

Limited access to baccalaureate nursing education for RNs in rural areas has restricted their career development. This paper describes an effective mobile educational program created through collaborative efforts of nursing administrators, nurse educators, and RN students.

Crisis and ethical dilemmas: who will care for the rural nurse?

The critical care nurse who works in the small rural community faces the unique experience of indistinct personal and professional roles. Established relationships in the rural community place the critical care nurse at risk of becoming a victim when ethical and crisis events arise.