Auckland Spinal Rehabilitation Unit (ASRU)

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), Rehabilitation Coordinator 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, their family/whānau and the ASRU team 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.

Nurses involved in rehabilitation also have a large teaching role. Spinal cord injury can affect essentially all body parts and functions below the injury leading to difficulties with skin integrity, sexual function, bowel and bladder function, blood pressure and circulation, breathing and balance.

Nurses assist patients to practise new skills and provide education to help them to regain and maintain their health and wellbeing.

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https://www.healthpoint.co.nz/public/spinal/auckland-spinal-rehabilitation-unit-asru/