Sylvia Barton - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Sylvia Barton

Journal of Nursing Education and Practice

While change is acknowledged as integral to all action research, literature linking the theories ... more While change is acknowledged as integral to all action research, literature linking the theories of change theoretically merits exploration. Are some theories of change more congruent to principles of action research than others? Does congruence depend on which type of action research and which change theory are being compared? During the implementation of a four-cycle community-based participatory action research (CBPR) project in nursing education in Ghana, such questions arose. This paper is an attempt to grapple with those questions. While Kotter’s eight-step theory of organizational change was chosen to guide this study, it became obvious that various elements of change theories were integrated in the study as it progressed. For Kotter’s organizational change theory to serve as an effective guide for the implementation cycles in the CBPR project, it must be conducted through the lens of critical social theory and a perspective on social and cultural change.

International Journal of Qualitative Methods

Methodological challenges of qualitative research involving people considered vulnerable are wide... more Methodological challenges of qualitative research involving people considered vulnerable are widely prevalent, for which many novice researchers are not well equipped or prepared for. This places great physical and emotional demands on the researchers. However, a discussion to bring to light the issues related to the researchers’ experiences and practical concerns in the field remains largely invisible in the literature. This article presents the reflective accounts of a doctoral researcher’s fieldwork experience, particularly in relation to the methodological challenges encountered in carrying out research with vulnerable women in rural and northern Thailand. Four of these challenges pertain to selecting a field site and acquiring access, recruiting and building trust, maintaining privacy and confidentiality, and being vulnerable as a researcher. Suggestions from the literature and practical strategies the researcher employed to deal with such challenges and real dilemmas are discu...

International Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences

Central Asian Journal of Global Health

Introduction: Persistent inequities in health and access to healthcare services for indigenous wo... more Introduction: Persistent inequities in health and access to healthcare services for indigenous women living in Thailand remain a significant challenge. This study provides narrative accounts of Indigenous women’s experiences accessing healthcare in northern and rural Thailand and explores the complexity of culture and its interaction with multiple intersecting influences on health behaviours.Methods: A focused ethnographic study was conducted to understand and describe the culture of health behaviors and other cultural phenomena. We recruited 21 female participants aged 20-41 years between March and April of 2017. In-depth semi-structured interviews conducted in Thai were used to explore the experiences of the participants living in a northern rural village. Data analysis was informed and guided by Roper and Shapira’s framework for ethnographic analysis.Results: Seven themes presented across three phases of experience (pre-access, making choices, and encountering difficulties) revea...

Journal of interpersonal violence, 2018

Intimate partner violence (IPV) has become a worldwide epidemic, yet little is known about the ex... more Intimate partner violence (IPV) has become a worldwide epidemic, yet little is known about the experiences of women survivors living in rural and Northern Canadian communities. Existing statistics suggest that women living in rural areas of the Canadian Prairie Provinces and Northwest Territories (NWT) are at a significantly higher risk of experiencing IPV. To better understand the experiences of IPV in these regions, qualitative interviews were conducted with service providers, including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Victims Services, Shelter Services, counselors, and others (e.g., physicians). In total, 122 participants were interviewed. These interviews were analyzed using a grounded theory approach where the data/results were transformed into a pictorial matrix that documents the struggles that service providers endure. The matrix/results highlight how social issues, such as isolation and poverty, contribute to social oppressions, such as lack of resources, transport...

Revista latino-americana de enfermagem, Jan 5, 2017

to review and synthesize qualitative research on the links between early-life stress and addictio... more to review and synthesize qualitative research on the links between early-life stress and addiction behaviours in adulthood. metasynthesis to review qualitative research findings based on procedures that outline how to identify themes or constructs across studies in a specific area. Comprehensive searches of multiple electronic databases were performed. The initial search yielded 1050 articles and the titles and abstracts were screened for inclusion based on predetermined criteria. Thirty-eight full text, peer-reviewed articles were retrieved and assessed by three independent reviewers. Twelve articles were eligible for full review and appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tools. the findings revealed that clear associations exist between early-life stress and addictive behaviours in adulthood, such as between trauma in childhood, violence, and addictive behaviours. A common theme in the findings indicates that participants turn to addictive substances as a w...

Journal of Nursing Education and Practice

Background: A 2010 study of preceptorship as a clinical teaching model in Ghana revealed weakness... more Background: A 2010 study of preceptorship as a clinical teaching model in Ghana revealed weaknesses related to high student-preceptor ratios and inadequate support from faculty in the educational institution. A four-cycle community-based participatory action research study was designed to further delineate clinical teaching and learning issues and partner with Ghanaian stakeholders in critical analysis of possibilities for positive change in clinical nursing education. The purpose of this paper, taken from Cycle One of the study, is to provide understanding of the challenges of the current clinical teaching model(s) used in the study institution from the perspectives of students and faculty. Early engagement of external stakeholders is described.Methods: Each university target group was invited to complete a semi-structured questionnaire. Interviews were conducted with representatives from the Ministry of Health, the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Ghana, and the Ghana Registered N...

The Canadian Journal of Nursing Research Revue Canadienne De Recherche En Sciences Infirmieres, Aug 31, 2008

A narrative inquiry approach was used to explore the experience of Aboriginal people living with ... more A narrative inquiry approach was used to explore the experience of Aboriginal people living with type 2 diabetes mellitus in a rural community. Narrative inquiry based on hermeneutic phenomenological philosophy was the methodology used to guide the research. A purposive sample of 4 persons of Nuxalk ancestry living in Bella Coola, Canada, were selected for their ability to present rich life narratives and to reveal meaning in their particular diabetes stories. Three key insights or overarching analytical interpretations emerged and could contribute broadly to Aboriginal health research. The focus of the article is the expansion of our understanding of diabetes within a specific cultural context. The discussion connects various philosophical, epistemological, and methodological orientations to research with Aboriginal people living with diabetes.

Http Dx Doi Org 10 1080 17432979 2011 577995, Jun 1, 2011

... DOI: 10.1080/17432979.2011.577995 Lynn Switzman a ... exploring body-mind exercise approaches... more ... DOI: 10.1080/17432979.2011.577995 Lynn Switzman a ... exploring body-mind exercise approaches on well-being, studies suggest that improved mood and a reduction in stress can result with the practice of Yoga (Danhauer et al., 20087. Danhauer, SC, Tooze, JA, Farmer, DF ...

The Canadian Journal of Nursing Research Revue Canadienne De Recherche En Sciences Infirmieres, 2009

Promoting culturally competent care for diabetes is critical to addressing the health inequities ... more Promoting culturally competent care for diabetes is critical to addressing the health inequities of indigenous peoples. Based on a review of studies published between 1995 and 2007, the author presents a descriptive analysis of Aboriginal diabetes knowledge guiding the involvement of advanced practice nurses in programs of care. While the literature review is not systematic, it is sufficiently comprehensive to provide a theoretical backdrop to Aboriginal diabetes programs of practice and research. In terms of a particular area of Aboriginal diabetes literature, it also provides a snapshot of community-based diabetes research focused on holistic methodologies historically used in the Canadian context. The Aboriginal diabetes literature is found to be a source of rich information. Analysis of holistic methodologies, however, reveals underdevelopment of research and limited use of key holistic guidelines for Aboriginal policy research.

The Canadian Journal of Nursing Research Revue Canadienne De Recherche En Sciences Infirmieres, Nov 30, 2008

Promoting culturally competent care for diabetes is critical to addressing the health inequities ... more Promoting culturally competent care for diabetes is critical to addressing the health inequities of indigenous peoples. Based on a review of studies published between 1995 and 2007, the author presents a descriptive analysis of Aboriginal diabetes knowledge guiding the involvement of advanced practice nurses in programs of care. While the literature review is not systematic, it is sufficiently comprehensive to provide a theoretical backdrop to Aboriginal diabetes programs of practice and research. In terms of a particular area of Aboriginal diabetes literature, it also provides a snapshot of community-based diabetes research focused on holistic methodologies historically used in the Canadian context. The Aboriginal diabetes literature is found to be a source of rich information. Analysis of holistic methodologies, however, reveals underdevelopment of research and limited use of key holistic guidelines for Aboriginal policy research.

aboriginal policy studies, 2015

It is not only remote Aboriginal communities in Canada that have poorer maternalinfant health sta... more It is not only remote Aboriginal communities in Canada that have poorer maternalinfant health status than Canadian averages; residents of First Nation communities located close to large urban centres also experience this health status gap. Alexander, Alexis, Enoch, and Paul First Nations are located within an hour of healthcare services in greater Edmonton. The narratives of 75 predominantly Cree and Stoney women from these communities were gathered through seven talking circles and five semi-structured interviews. The participants described their experiences of loss and separation as pregnancy care and childbirth moved out of the community and into the hospital over the last two generations. This shift was not only a geographic relocation; it also disconnected the childbirth experience from elders, family and community, traditional teachings, and spiritual meaning. Conversely, the participants' hospital experiences were characterized by a limited sense of cultural safety. Participants highlighted the urgent need to reintegrate culturally based community support and health perspectives into the childbirth experience. The implementation of such a culturally integrated healthcare model in all Aboriginal communities-remote, rural, suburban, and urban-may be the key finally to closing the gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal maternal and infant health status in Canada.

Social Indicators Research Series, 2002

... workplace. Page 10. 272 SYLVIA S. BARTON Purpose of the Study The purpose ... culture factors... more ... workplace. Page 10. 272 SYLVIA S. BARTON Purpose of the Study The purpose ... culture factors. To this end, a pioneer research initiative in Prince George, BC is about to explore this high stakes domain. REFERENCES Alberta ...

The Canadian journal of nursing research = Revue canadienne de recherche en sciences infirmières, 2008

Promoting culturally competent care for diabetes is critical to addressing the health inequities ... more Promoting culturally competent care for diabetes is critical to addressing the health inequities of indigenous peoples. Based on a review of studies published between 1995 and 2007, the author presents a descriptive analysis of Aboriginal diabetes knowledge guiding the involvement of advanced practice nurses in programs of care. While the literature review is not systematic, it is sufficiently comprehensive to provide a theoretical backdrop to Aboriginal diabetes programs of practice and research. In terms of a particular area of Aboriginal diabetes literature, it also provides a snapshot of community-based diabetes research focused on holistic methodologies historically used in the Canadian context. The Aboriginal diabetes literature is found to be a source of rich information. Analysis of holistic methodologies, however, reveals underdevelopment of research and limited use of key holistic guidelines for Aboriginal policy research.

The Canadian journal of nursing research = Revue canadienne de recherche en sciences infirmières, 2008

A narrative inquiry approach was used to explore the experience of Aboriginal people living with ... more A narrative inquiry approach was used to explore the experience of Aboriginal people living with type 2 diabetes mellitus in a rural community. Narrative inquiry based on hermeneutic phenomenological philosophy was the methodology used to guide the research. A purposive sample of 4 persons of Nuxalk ancestry living in Bella Coola, Canada, were selected for their ability to present rich life narratives and to reveal meaning in their particular diabetes stories. Three key insights or overarching analytical interpretations emerged and could contribute broadly to Aboriginal health research. The focus of the article is the expansion of our understanding of diabetes within a specific cultural context. The discussion connects various philosophical, epistemological, and methodological orientations to research with Aboriginal people living with diabetes.

Nurse Education in Practice, 2011

In exploring innovative approaches to enhanced patient care, an acute care interprofessional clin... more In exploring innovative approaches to enhanced patient care, an acute care interprofessional clinical learning unit (IPCLU) was established in a medical unit of a large metropolitan hospital in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Part of a larger, community based, participatory mixed method research project, this acute-care model involved several post-secondary institution health science faculties, students, academics, and other post-secondary institutions partnering with the hospital to coordinate and enhance student clinical learning and improve patient care. Pre-implementation data collected from the existing acute-care unit patient-care team, students, and faculty identified areas of strength and enhancement opportunities in interprofessional education (IPE). Interested members of several professions from the patient-care units and students constituted the working group that developed the model. This paper discusses clinical IPE and its relevance in nursing education, explains the processes and mechanisms in creating the IPCLU, details the initiatives that were developed to facilitate enhanced interprofessional care, and offers considerations in advancing IPE in an acute-care setting. The work plan included initiatives that enhance interprofessional teaching and learning culture, increase awareness surrounding interprofessional teamwork and professional roles, promote interprofessional communication and decision-making strategies, and further develop clinical reflection. Insights regarding sustainability are offered.

Journal of Transcultural Nursing, 2006

This ethnographic study explored the question, How do urban-based First Nations peoples use heali... more This ethnographic study explored the question, How do urban-based First Nations peoples use healing traditions to address their health issues? The objectives were to examine how Aboriginal traditions addressed health issues and explore the link between such traditions and holism in nursing practice. Data collection consisted of individual interviews, participant observations, and field notes. Three major categories that emerged from the data analysis were: following a cultural path, gaining balance, and sharing in the circle of life. The global theme of healing holistically included following a cultural path by regaining culture through the use of healing traditions; gaining balance in the four realms of spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical health; and sharing in the circle of life by cultural interactions between Aboriginal peoples and non-Aboriginal health professionals. Implications for practice include incorporating the concepts of balance, holism, and cultural healing into the health care services for diverse Aboriginal peoples.

Journal of Clinical Nursing, 2006

CJNR (Canadian Journal of Nursing Research), 2008

Promoting culturally competent care for diabetes is critical to addressing the health inequities ... more Promoting culturally competent care for diabetes is critical to addressing the health inequities of indigenous peoples. Based on a review of studies published between 1995 and 2007, the author presents a descriptive analysis of Aboriginal diabetes knowledge guiding the involvement of advanced practice nurses in programs of care. While the literature review is not systematic, it is sufficiently comprehensive to provide a theoretical backdrop to Aboriginal diabetes programs of practice and research. In terms of a particular area of Aboriginal diabetes literature, it also provides a snapshot of community-based diabetes research focused on holistic methodologies historically used in the Canadian context. The Aboriginal diabetes literature is found to be a source of rich information. Analysis of holistic methodologies, however, reveals underdevelopment of research and limited use of key holistic guidelines for Aboriginal policy research.

Journal of Nursing Education and Practice

While change is acknowledged as integral to all action research, literature linking the theories ... more While change is acknowledged as integral to all action research, literature linking the theories of change theoretically merits exploration. Are some theories of change more congruent to principles of action research than others? Does congruence depend on which type of action research and which change theory are being compared? During the implementation of a four-cycle community-based participatory action research (CBPR) project in nursing education in Ghana, such questions arose. This paper is an attempt to grapple with those questions. While Kotter’s eight-step theory of organizational change was chosen to guide this study, it became obvious that various elements of change theories were integrated in the study as it progressed. For Kotter’s organizational change theory to serve as an effective guide for the implementation cycles in the CBPR project, it must be conducted through the lens of critical social theory and a perspective on social and cultural change.

International Journal of Qualitative Methods

Methodological challenges of qualitative research involving people considered vulnerable are wide... more Methodological challenges of qualitative research involving people considered vulnerable are widely prevalent, for which many novice researchers are not well equipped or prepared for. This places great physical and emotional demands on the researchers. However, a discussion to bring to light the issues related to the researchers’ experiences and practical concerns in the field remains largely invisible in the literature. This article presents the reflective accounts of a doctoral researcher’s fieldwork experience, particularly in relation to the methodological challenges encountered in carrying out research with vulnerable women in rural and northern Thailand. Four of these challenges pertain to selecting a field site and acquiring access, recruiting and building trust, maintaining privacy and confidentiality, and being vulnerable as a researcher. Suggestions from the literature and practical strategies the researcher employed to deal with such challenges and real dilemmas are discu...

International Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences

Central Asian Journal of Global Health

Introduction: Persistent inequities in health and access to healthcare services for indigenous wo... more Introduction: Persistent inequities in health and access to healthcare services for indigenous women living in Thailand remain a significant challenge. This study provides narrative accounts of Indigenous women’s experiences accessing healthcare in northern and rural Thailand and explores the complexity of culture and its interaction with multiple intersecting influences on health behaviours.Methods: A focused ethnographic study was conducted to understand and describe the culture of health behaviors and other cultural phenomena. We recruited 21 female participants aged 20-41 years between March and April of 2017. In-depth semi-structured interviews conducted in Thai were used to explore the experiences of the participants living in a northern rural village. Data analysis was informed and guided by Roper and Shapira’s framework for ethnographic analysis.Results: Seven themes presented across three phases of experience (pre-access, making choices, and encountering difficulties) revea...

Journal of interpersonal violence, 2018

Intimate partner violence (IPV) has become a worldwide epidemic, yet little is known about the ex... more Intimate partner violence (IPV) has become a worldwide epidemic, yet little is known about the experiences of women survivors living in rural and Northern Canadian communities. Existing statistics suggest that women living in rural areas of the Canadian Prairie Provinces and Northwest Territories (NWT) are at a significantly higher risk of experiencing IPV. To better understand the experiences of IPV in these regions, qualitative interviews were conducted with service providers, including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Victims Services, Shelter Services, counselors, and others (e.g., physicians). In total, 122 participants were interviewed. These interviews were analyzed using a grounded theory approach where the data/results were transformed into a pictorial matrix that documents the struggles that service providers endure. The matrix/results highlight how social issues, such as isolation and poverty, contribute to social oppressions, such as lack of resources, transport...

Revista latino-americana de enfermagem, Jan 5, 2017

to review and synthesize qualitative research on the links between early-life stress and addictio... more to review and synthesize qualitative research on the links between early-life stress and addiction behaviours in adulthood. metasynthesis to review qualitative research findings based on procedures that outline how to identify themes or constructs across studies in a specific area. Comprehensive searches of multiple electronic databases were performed. The initial search yielded 1050 articles and the titles and abstracts were screened for inclusion based on predetermined criteria. Thirty-eight full text, peer-reviewed articles were retrieved and assessed by three independent reviewers. Twelve articles were eligible for full review and appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tools. the findings revealed that clear associations exist between early-life stress and addictive behaviours in adulthood, such as between trauma in childhood, violence, and addictive behaviours. A common theme in the findings indicates that participants turn to addictive substances as a w...

Journal of Nursing Education and Practice

Background: A 2010 study of preceptorship as a clinical teaching model in Ghana revealed weakness... more Background: A 2010 study of preceptorship as a clinical teaching model in Ghana revealed weaknesses related to high student-preceptor ratios and inadequate support from faculty in the educational institution. A four-cycle community-based participatory action research study was designed to further delineate clinical teaching and learning issues and partner with Ghanaian stakeholders in critical analysis of possibilities for positive change in clinical nursing education. The purpose of this paper, taken from Cycle One of the study, is to provide understanding of the challenges of the current clinical teaching model(s) used in the study institution from the perspectives of students and faculty. Early engagement of external stakeholders is described.Methods: Each university target group was invited to complete a semi-structured questionnaire. Interviews were conducted with representatives from the Ministry of Health, the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Ghana, and the Ghana Registered N...

The Canadian Journal of Nursing Research Revue Canadienne De Recherche En Sciences Infirmieres, Aug 31, 2008

A narrative inquiry approach was used to explore the experience of Aboriginal people living with ... more A narrative inquiry approach was used to explore the experience of Aboriginal people living with type 2 diabetes mellitus in a rural community. Narrative inquiry based on hermeneutic phenomenological philosophy was the methodology used to guide the research. A purposive sample of 4 persons of Nuxalk ancestry living in Bella Coola, Canada, were selected for their ability to present rich life narratives and to reveal meaning in their particular diabetes stories. Three key insights or overarching analytical interpretations emerged and could contribute broadly to Aboriginal health research. The focus of the article is the expansion of our understanding of diabetes within a specific cultural context. The discussion connects various philosophical, epistemological, and methodological orientations to research with Aboriginal people living with diabetes.

Http Dx Doi Org 10 1080 17432979 2011 577995, Jun 1, 2011

... DOI: 10.1080/17432979.2011.577995 Lynn Switzman a ... exploring body-mind exercise approaches... more ... DOI: 10.1080/17432979.2011.577995 Lynn Switzman a ... exploring body-mind exercise approaches on well-being, studies suggest that improved mood and a reduction in stress can result with the practice of Yoga (Danhauer et al., 20087. Danhauer, SC, Tooze, JA, Farmer, DF ...

The Canadian Journal of Nursing Research Revue Canadienne De Recherche En Sciences Infirmieres, 2009

Promoting culturally competent care for diabetes is critical to addressing the health inequities ... more Promoting culturally competent care for diabetes is critical to addressing the health inequities of indigenous peoples. Based on a review of studies published between 1995 and 2007, the author presents a descriptive analysis of Aboriginal diabetes knowledge guiding the involvement of advanced practice nurses in programs of care. While the literature review is not systematic, it is sufficiently comprehensive to provide a theoretical backdrop to Aboriginal diabetes programs of practice and research. In terms of a particular area of Aboriginal diabetes literature, it also provides a snapshot of community-based diabetes research focused on holistic methodologies historically used in the Canadian context. The Aboriginal diabetes literature is found to be a source of rich information. Analysis of holistic methodologies, however, reveals underdevelopment of research and limited use of key holistic guidelines for Aboriginal policy research.

The Canadian Journal of Nursing Research Revue Canadienne De Recherche En Sciences Infirmieres, Nov 30, 2008

Promoting culturally competent care for diabetes is critical to addressing the health inequities ... more Promoting culturally competent care for diabetes is critical to addressing the health inequities of indigenous peoples. Based on a review of studies published between 1995 and 2007, the author presents a descriptive analysis of Aboriginal diabetes knowledge guiding the involvement of advanced practice nurses in programs of care. While the literature review is not systematic, it is sufficiently comprehensive to provide a theoretical backdrop to Aboriginal diabetes programs of practice and research. In terms of a particular area of Aboriginal diabetes literature, it also provides a snapshot of community-based diabetes research focused on holistic methodologies historically used in the Canadian context. The Aboriginal diabetes literature is found to be a source of rich information. Analysis of holistic methodologies, however, reveals underdevelopment of research and limited use of key holistic guidelines for Aboriginal policy research.

aboriginal policy studies, 2015

It is not only remote Aboriginal communities in Canada that have poorer maternalinfant health sta... more It is not only remote Aboriginal communities in Canada that have poorer maternalinfant health status than Canadian averages; residents of First Nation communities located close to large urban centres also experience this health status gap. Alexander, Alexis, Enoch, and Paul First Nations are located within an hour of healthcare services in greater Edmonton. The narratives of 75 predominantly Cree and Stoney women from these communities were gathered through seven talking circles and five semi-structured interviews. The participants described their experiences of loss and separation as pregnancy care and childbirth moved out of the community and into the hospital over the last two generations. This shift was not only a geographic relocation; it also disconnected the childbirth experience from elders, family and community, traditional teachings, and spiritual meaning. Conversely, the participants' hospital experiences were characterized by a limited sense of cultural safety. Participants highlighted the urgent need to reintegrate culturally based community support and health perspectives into the childbirth experience. The implementation of such a culturally integrated healthcare model in all Aboriginal communities-remote, rural, suburban, and urban-may be the key finally to closing the gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal maternal and infant health status in Canada.

Social Indicators Research Series, 2002

... workplace. Page 10. 272 SYLVIA S. BARTON Purpose of the Study The purpose ... culture factors... more ... workplace. Page 10. 272 SYLVIA S. BARTON Purpose of the Study The purpose ... culture factors. To this end, a pioneer research initiative in Prince George, BC is about to explore this high stakes domain. REFERENCES Alberta ...

The Canadian journal of nursing research = Revue canadienne de recherche en sciences infirmières, 2008

Promoting culturally competent care for diabetes is critical to addressing the health inequities ... more Promoting culturally competent care for diabetes is critical to addressing the health inequities of indigenous peoples. Based on a review of studies published between 1995 and 2007, the author presents a descriptive analysis of Aboriginal diabetes knowledge guiding the involvement of advanced practice nurses in programs of care. While the literature review is not systematic, it is sufficiently comprehensive to provide a theoretical backdrop to Aboriginal diabetes programs of practice and research. In terms of a particular area of Aboriginal diabetes literature, it also provides a snapshot of community-based diabetes research focused on holistic methodologies historically used in the Canadian context. The Aboriginal diabetes literature is found to be a source of rich information. Analysis of holistic methodologies, however, reveals underdevelopment of research and limited use of key holistic guidelines for Aboriginal policy research.

The Canadian journal of nursing research = Revue canadienne de recherche en sciences infirmières, 2008

A narrative inquiry approach was used to explore the experience of Aboriginal people living with ... more A narrative inquiry approach was used to explore the experience of Aboriginal people living with type 2 diabetes mellitus in a rural community. Narrative inquiry based on hermeneutic phenomenological philosophy was the methodology used to guide the research. A purposive sample of 4 persons of Nuxalk ancestry living in Bella Coola, Canada, were selected for their ability to present rich life narratives and to reveal meaning in their particular diabetes stories. Three key insights or overarching analytical interpretations emerged and could contribute broadly to Aboriginal health research. The focus of the article is the expansion of our understanding of diabetes within a specific cultural context. The discussion connects various philosophical, epistemological, and methodological orientations to research with Aboriginal people living with diabetes.

Nurse Education in Practice, 2011

In exploring innovative approaches to enhanced patient care, an acute care interprofessional clin... more In exploring innovative approaches to enhanced patient care, an acute care interprofessional clinical learning unit (IPCLU) was established in a medical unit of a large metropolitan hospital in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Part of a larger, community based, participatory mixed method research project, this acute-care model involved several post-secondary institution health science faculties, students, academics, and other post-secondary institutions partnering with the hospital to coordinate and enhance student clinical learning and improve patient care. Pre-implementation data collected from the existing acute-care unit patient-care team, students, and faculty identified areas of strength and enhancement opportunities in interprofessional education (IPE). Interested members of several professions from the patient-care units and students constituted the working group that developed the model. This paper discusses clinical IPE and its relevance in nursing education, explains the processes and mechanisms in creating the IPCLU, details the initiatives that were developed to facilitate enhanced interprofessional care, and offers considerations in advancing IPE in an acute-care setting. The work plan included initiatives that enhance interprofessional teaching and learning culture, increase awareness surrounding interprofessional teamwork and professional roles, promote interprofessional communication and decision-making strategies, and further develop clinical reflection. Insights regarding sustainability are offered.

Journal of Transcultural Nursing, 2006

This ethnographic study explored the question, How do urban-based First Nations peoples use heali... more This ethnographic study explored the question, How do urban-based First Nations peoples use healing traditions to address their health issues? The objectives were to examine how Aboriginal traditions addressed health issues and explore the link between such traditions and holism in nursing practice. Data collection consisted of individual interviews, participant observations, and field notes. Three major categories that emerged from the data analysis were: following a cultural path, gaining balance, and sharing in the circle of life. The global theme of healing holistically included following a cultural path by regaining culture through the use of healing traditions; gaining balance in the four realms of spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical health; and sharing in the circle of life by cultural interactions between Aboriginal peoples and non-Aboriginal health professionals. Implications for practice include incorporating the concepts of balance, holism, and cultural healing into the health care services for diverse Aboriginal peoples.

Journal of Clinical Nursing, 2006

CJNR (Canadian Journal of Nursing Research), 2008

Promoting culturally competent care for diabetes is critical to addressing the health inequities ... more Promoting culturally competent care for diabetes is critical to addressing the health inequities of indigenous peoples. Based on a review of studies published between 1995 and 2007, the author presents a descriptive analysis of Aboriginal diabetes knowledge guiding the involvement of advanced practice nurses in programs of care. While the literature review is not systematic, it is sufficiently comprehensive to provide a theoretical backdrop to Aboriginal diabetes programs of practice and research. In terms of a particular area of Aboriginal diabetes literature, it also provides a snapshot of community-based diabetes research focused on holistic methodologies historically used in the Canadian context. The Aboriginal diabetes literature is found to be a source of rich information. Analysis of holistic methodologies, however, reveals underdevelopment of research and limited use of key holistic guidelines for Aboriginal policy research.