Varied topics at perioperative nurses' conference.

THIRTY YEARS ago, Wellington hosted the first theatre nurses' seminar, a low key event. This year, the Perioperative Nurses' College of NZNO conference, also held in Wellington, had over 250 delegates from throughout New Zealand.

The conference theme was that of "Best Practice--Evidence Based" and the speakers throughout the two and a half days in November provided attendees with a wide variety of material. The director of clinical nursing research and of the Centre for Evidence based Nursing Aotearoa at the University of Auckland, Bridle Kent, gave the keynote speech on the opening day. Evidence-based practice was not a new concept, but a vital process, applicable to all nurses, wherever they worked, she said.

Head of the University of Auckland School of Nursing Judy Kilpatrick gave a concise history and overview of the development of the nurse practitioner (NP) role in New Zealand. Research had shown that NP services provided benefits to consumers and to the health sector. The passing of the Health Practitioners Competency Act ensured the title is protected. Nursing Council would continue to define the boundaries and scope of practice for NPs. Currently there are ten NPs but only one with prescribing rights.

Director of Massey University's (Wellington) Sleep/Wake Research Centre, Philippa Gander, gave a remarkable presentation on sleep and healthy rostering. While one third of our lifetime is spent "sleeping", many factors influence the amount and deepness of our sleep. Gander examined the dynamics of sleep loss and recovery as it relates to nurses' shift work and suggested ideas for better rosters and personal coping strategies for allowing our biological (Circadian) clocks to adapt to shiftwork.

Perioperative nurses very seldom see or meet their patients post-operatively. It was a poignant moment when Wellington School of Medicine senior lecturer in orthopaedic surgery, Peter Devane, concluded his presentation on total hip arthroplasty following reconstruction, by introducing the patient to the audience, who were then able to ask questions. Devane maintains perioperative teams do make a difference in people's lives.

Retaining forensic evidence in the best possible condition for the scientists, while not applicable to all perioperative nursing areas, was nevertheless interesting. Scientist with Wellington's Environment Science Research Bjorn Sutherland showed slides from the many assault and homicide scenes he has encountered as part of his duties. Guidelines include using plastic containers for fragments, sterile dry swabs, and noting times, date, location and person/s responsible for the collection of evidence. Wearing gloves and using tweezers etc was important to avoid contamination.

Stress management, error management and team work were all moving presentations. They reminded perioperative nurses that, in spite of our best efforts, human error was inescapable and that investigation and reporting systems must be in place. For best results, a "no-blame" system should be instituted.

Team leader in the delivery suite at Wellington's Women's Hospital, Frances McIver, gave a presentation on the impact of horizontal violence on the midwife's ability to provide safe maternity care. While not directly relevant to the perioperative environment, her findings from her master's thesis on bullying serve as a harsh reminder of some negative work practices and the importance of nurturing students, new graduates and work colleagues.

A major feature of the conference were the 44 industry exhibits, a welcoming cocktail function, dinner cruise and conference dinner at Te Papa, '70s' style.

The debate "Sacred cows versus research" was moderated by actor Ginette McDonald and judged by the audience as a draw. The light-hearted humour provided an appropriate ending for the conference.