Stimulating an interest in mental health nursing

A team of researchers at the University of Wollongong are currently examining the experiences of Bachelor of Nursing (BN) students as they engage in a stimulating learning experience in mental health

Longitudinally Jointed Edge-wise Compression Honeycomb Composite Sandwich Coupon Testing and FE Analysis: Three Methods of Strain Measurement, and Comparison

Three means (i.e., typical foil strain gages, fiber optic sensors, and a digital image correlation (DIC) system) were implemented to measure strains on the back and front surfaces of a longitudinally jointed curved test article subjected to edge-wise compression testing, at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, according to ASTM C364. The Pre-test finite element analysis (FEA) was conducted to assess ultimate failure load and predict strain distribution pattern throughout the test coupon. The predicted strain pattern contours were then utilized as guidelines for installing the strain measurement instrumentations. The strain gages and fiber optic sensors were bonded on the specimen at locations with nearly the same strain values, as close as possible to each other, so that, comparisons between the measured strains by strain gages and fiber optic sensors, as well as the DIC system are justified. The test article was loaded to failure (at approximately 38 kips), at the strain value of approximately 10,000mu epsilon As a part of this study, the validity of the measured strains by fiber optic sensors is examined against the strain gage and DIC data, and also will be compared with FEA predictions

Assessment of mental health and mental illness

Mental Health: A Person-Centred Approach aligns mental health research with the human connections that can and should be made in mental health care. The authors seek to deepen students understanding of themselves, the work they do, and how this intersects with the lives and crises of people with mental health. Taking a storytelling approach, it presents real-life stories to provide students with first hand experiences...

Why developing trusting as well as trust is a leadership priority

The paper considers the relationship between leadership, trust and trusting. The examples given look at their role in developing and supporting the learning processes needed for knowledge development. Two qualitative research projects are analysed considering how leadership, trust, learning and knowledge are affecting each other. The importance of trust was clarified but, more importantly, the notion of trusting as a differentiated set of behaviours was identified. The paper concludes that developing trust is not enough, leaders need to ensure that the theories-in-use and the espoused theories of trust are in line and that, in order to engender trust, leaders must initiate trusting behaviours

An immersive work integrated learning experience- showcasing an innovative, experiential clinical placement.

In May 2013, UOW provided the opportunity for 3rd year student nurses, psychology students and 30 people with severe and enduring mental illness to accompany four mental health nurse academics on a camp

The experience of nurses moving into forensic mental health employment: A qualitative study

While forensic mental health has seen considerable growth over the last two decades, little is known about the experience of registered nurses working in these environments. This study used a qualitative descriptive approach and interviewed 11 registered nurses to explore the interpersonal experiences of transition into a forensic mental health hospital. The data revealed three themes. ‘Observing what\u27s safe’ examined nurses\u27 ability to maintain safety in the context of inconsistent practices among colleagues. ‘Navigating cliques and divisions’ focused on nurses\u27 sense of belonging and adapting to professional and personal groups. Finally, ‘gaining management support’ reflected nurses\u27 experiences of engagement with management. This study provides new insight into nurses\u27 experience of adapting to employment in forensic mental health settings and highlights the importance of positive support strategies for workplace transition

Why do nurses seek employment in forensic mental health and what are their first impressions of the clinical environment? A mixed methods study

Aim: The aim of the study was to investigate why registered nurses seek forensic mental health employment and explore their initial impressions of this setting. Design: Explanatory sequential mixed methods. Methods: Registered nurses employed in a forensic mental health hospital completed an online survey about their reasons for seeking work in forensic mental health and their transition into the setting. To fully explore findings, semi-structured interviews were conducted with a sub-group of survey respondents. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse survey data, and thematic analysis was used to analyse the interviews. Results: Sixty-nine respondents completed the survey, and 11 interviews were conducted. Prior interest in forensic mental health and encouragement from hospital staff were considered important influences in seeking forensic mental health employment. New knowledge, changes in clinical responsibility, exposure to patients\u27 background offences and security processes overwhelmed some participants initially. However, participants reported that the initial challenges of their transition revealed opportunities to develop genuine connections with patients. Conclusion: This study provides a new understanding of the reasons why nurses seek employment in forensic mental health and the challenges and opportunities experienced when first working in this setting. Such professional and personal elements need to be considered by organizations to strengthen recruitment strategies and support future nurses\u27 transition into forensic mental health settings. Impact: This study provides new knowledge about recruiting and supporting nurses\u27 transition into forensic mental health employment. As such, it informs policymakers, clinical services and managers about strategies needed to attract and retain this workforce. Patient or Public contribution: No public or patient involvement

On the Role of an Environment

Can theAda environment meet the goals oftheDoD high-order language effort? The approach described herepromises to b

Consumers collaborate to bridge the theory practice gap for nursing students in an innovative \u27bush camp\u27 clinical placement

Abstract of paper that presented at the 39th International Mental Health Nursing: Collaboration and Partnerships in Mental Health Nursing, 22-24 October, Perth