Heather Waterman

Stretching exercises for qualitative researchers

The title of this text relates to the metaphor of art — specifically, dance and yoga. This is significant because it is a metaphor which is used throughout to emphasise the artistry of qualitative research. The author argues that qualitative researchers need to develop and refine observational, interview and journal techniques much as a dancer or yoga practitioner has to ‘train the mind, eye and soul together’.

The nurse practitioner’s role in day case pre-operative assessment

This article discusses the benefits of developing a nurse practitioner role in day case surgery through an appropriate education programme and a multidisciplinary support group. The authors found that the expanded role can work well in this setting and benefit patients.

Promoting action research in healthcare settings

To coincide with the first annual Action Research conference taking place in London this week, this article promotes the idea of using action research for health care exploration and change. It also introduces the work of the Healthcare Subgroup of the Collaborative Action Research Network, the group’s aims and how practitioners can make contact and be involved with the development. The article also describes the outcomes of a research study that underpin the philosophy, process and potential benefits of the network as a means to promote practice development and change in client care.