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Characterising Maori Nursing Practice
Victoria Simon
Ngati Hikairo, Ngati Tuwharetoa, Maori Nurse researcher and Doctoral student, Research Centre for Maori Health and Development, School of Maori Studies, Massey University, Palmerston Campus, Palmerston, New Zealand
Abstract
This paper summarises research which addresses the question What might constitute Maori nursing practice? The research design adopted was influenced by Kaupapa Maori methodology and used a semi-structured, qualitative, in-depth interview process. It was found that by understanding the current experiences of Maori registered nurses, their reflections on their preparation for practice, and their current practice, we are able to identify the present and future training and practice needs of Maori nurses.
Maori nursing practice can be characterised as having five features: the promotion of cultural affirmation including cultural awareness and identity; the support of, and access to Maori networks; the adoption of Maori models of health; the enabling of visibility and pro-activity as Maori nurses; and, the validation of Maori nurses as effective health professionals. Three recommendations for promoting Maori nursing practice are made in relation to staff in the workplace and in nurse education programmes. All nursing staff need to be alert to:
- the impact of western scientific models on Maori healthcare;
- the (often passive) non-acceptance of Maori within mainstream institutions; and
- the benefits of valuing Indigenous nursing programmes.
Keywords
Maori nursing practice, Maori nursing education, Maori nursing, Maori nurse, Kaupapa Maori Research, Treaty of Waitangi.
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