Abstract
Rural nurse specialists (RNSs) frequently work in relative isolation which has the potential to increase the risk to their personal safety. RNSs working in New Zealand (NZ) are often required to do sole postings and on-call with no locator beacons and intermittent communication. Weather and geographical challenges dictate how easily support can be accessed. Those working in such isolated environments require a good knowledge of the available resources. Their location and environment are often reliant on good judgement rather than good systems (Bell, 2015; Howie, 2008; Kemp, 2012). While a few previous studies have identified some concerns related to the personal safety of rural nurses, these have generally related to nurses working in either Australia or Canada. There is little known about how RNSs working in NZ experience their personal safety when at work.
This study aimed to identify how RNSs currently working in South Westland (SW), NZ, perceive their personal safety. A qualitative approach using a focus group was used to explore responses. Thematic analysis, based on Braun and Clarke's (2006) framework, guided the process of data analysis and the development of themes identified in regard to nurse safety working in such unique and isolated environments.The results from the analysis of the transcribed data from the five RNS participants formed three main themes: 1) Community, 2) Pressure to perform, 3) Safety: Luck versus planning. Congruence was evident between the findings which emerged from this study and the literature in relation to current issues around rural nursing and the issues specific to SW. Recommendations for future practice and continued research are suggested.