Bring back the arvo nap to combat summer heat

Having an arvo nap may be better for your health than cranking up the air con to combat the heat this summer. Too much air conditioning may be harming our health, according to a study led by researchers at the Australian National University (ANU). Despite spending substantially more time in air-conditioned spaces over the past […]

Nepalese experience inspires Australian nursing students

Australian nursing students have immersed themselves in a rich cultural and educational experience in Nepal developing clinical skills while observing the challenges of providing healthcare in a developing country including poverty and limited resources. Eighteen second-year CQUniversity (CQU) Bachelor of Nursing students and two lecturers travelled to Kathmandu and Pokhara through June and July as […]

Bowel screening reminder for World Cancer Day

Ahead of World Cancer Day on 4 February, Australian researchers are calling for people of all ages to be aware of the signs and symptoms of bowel cancer. “We know early detection and treatment is vital to overcoming not only bowel cancer, but potentially other cancers as well,” said Professor Si Ming Man from the […]

Midwife pilot inspires next generation of nurses and midwives to aim high

“My advice for those that are starting out is that you’ve got to believe in yourself,” says midwife, helicopter pilot and CEO Captain Jan Becker who has spent years saving babies’ lives in Africa. Dr Becker gave some advice to those starting out in nursing and midwifery as she graduated in early October with a […]

Just ask: Inclusive language tool for midwives

Two Queer midwives have co-designed an inclusive birthing language poster for midwives and birth workers to help provide respectful care for all families. “When midwives use inclusive language, they make their families feel respected and comfortable and build trust more easily. “This approach allows for open and honest communication, which is crucial during the emotional […]

Incidental activity of 10 minutes may decrease heart disease risk

Choosing the stairs or speedily sweeping can lower the risk of heart disease, but how much and for how long is needed for it to have an impact? According to research published in The Lancet Public Health, short bouts of incidental activity, the kind we do as part of daily living, could reduce risk of […]

Small amounts of regular exercise make a difference

Want the health benefits of exercising, but aren’t too keen on pounding the pavement or pumping iron every day? New research may be able to narrow down just how many times per week you need to exercise to make it worth your while. Exercising every day for just 20 minutes may be more effective than […]

Expansion of mental health safe spaces in communities

There is a growing momentum for the creation of community-based safe spaces for people experiencing emotional distress or suicidal crises, as an alternative to visiting hospitals and emergency departments. In Australia, some safe spaces have been established, however many are housed within or near hospitals. Hospitals come with many barriers when it comes to responding […]

A compassionate approach

“Let’s take care of ourselves and each other”, says Mark Aitken, Deputy Director of Australia’s new national health and wellbeing service for nurses, midwives and students.