Volume 26 Number 2

As I write this, there continues to be much in the media to highlight the increasing challenges currently facing healthcare with many suggesting these have been present for years but have been intensified and perhaps hastened by the COVID-19 pandemic.  It seems that as part of a ‘global community’ that we are not alone, and that this situation is not isolated to Australia and New Zealand. Almost daily, details are shared of growing global healthcare demands and the shortfalls in meeting these. And while there have been suggested solutions to what some are describing as a ‘healthcare crisis, I listened with particular interest as a senior nurse was interviewed in relation to nursing workforce shortages now and in the future. She said: “The diverse health care challenges we are facing now and into the future will need to draw on the past to inform new and diverse solutions.”

Our Guest Editorial from Mark Baker titled Looking back to move forward is a great reminder of this, as it traces JARNA’s journey from humble beginnings to today. You will see from this too that like all professional nursing journals, JARNA too has had challenges along the way that have nearly resulted in its demise. Thankfully we (and JARNA) have weathered these and Mark’s hope that “Reflecting on the history and evolution of JARNA may perhaps inspire and motivate members to contribute and continue to add to the high quality and depth of work published in JARNA” is both topical and timely. I will add my voice to his to encourage all members to consider writing for JARNA so we can continue to share and make more visible the incredible work we all do each day.

It is also a wonderful introduction to showcasing the work of our skilled nurse authors across a variety of subjects including evidence-based strategies for improving skin integrity, bespoke nursing education and training programs, and strategies used by male nurses to navigate the potential for misinterpretation of care delivery. All excellent, they well demonstrate the unique, essential and important contribution of rehabilitation nurses in ensuring the best possible rehabilitation outcomes for those in their care.

Author(s)

Alison M New RN, BHSc (Nursing), MClin Rehab, MHSc (Clinical Education)
ARNA National President
Email president@arna.com.au