Auckland Spinal Rehabilitation Unit

Interdisciplinary Team

Nursing

Nurses are registered health professionals and all hold current registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand (statutory authority) which governs the practice of nurses. The Council sets and monitors standards in the interests of the profession.  The Council's primary concern is public safety.

The nursing team consists of Registered Nurses, Enrolled Nurses and Health Care assistants and are supported by the Charge Nurse, Nurse Educator, Clinical Nurse Specialist (outpatients) and Admission Coordinator.

Nurses provide a comprehensive nursing assessment of patients who have sustained a spinal cord injury. Following assessment the nurse will work alongside the patient and their family/whanau to establish patient centred goals. Together, the patient and the interdisciplinary health care team participate in achieving and evaluating these goals, which will allow the patient to achieve the very best outcomes in terms of health, independence and function, thereby improving quality of life

A rehabilitation nurse is patient, empathetic and understanding, and has excellent listening skills. They have problem solving skills and are able to think of inventive ways to enable patients to reach their goals.

Nurses involved in rehabilitation also have a large teaching role. Spinal cord injury can affect level of sensation and movement therefore leading to difficulties with affecting skin integrity, sexual function, bowel and bladder function, blood pressure and circulation, breathing and balance.

Nurses assist patients to practice new skills and provide education to help them to regain and maintain their health and well being.

Published:  30-Nov-2010  |  Website enquiries:  Administration Coordinator