Abstract:
This qualitative research utilised a health services research framework and ethnographic
methods to explore, describe and analyse contemporary child and family health (C&FH)
nursing practice in an area of New South Wales, and identify the major factors that impact
on their ability to effectively support families. The research identified the complexity of current
C&FH nursing practice and changes in thephilosophy that underpinned this at the policy level
that were difficult to adopt. Despite a change in policy direction that advocated a partnership
approach, nurses predominantly continue to frame their practice within an "expert" model. The
nurses also struggled to deliver new service models while maintaining-access for all families.
Some explanations for the tensions experienced by the nurses relate to their age and educational
preparation within the workforce. Other factors relate to the structures and management systems
evident within the health sertnce that employs them. To effectively support new families within
the community, health systems must adequately resource services and support C&FH nurses in
changing from a paradigm of expert to partner, consistent with primary health care practice.
