Respiratory Clinical Nurse Consultant Jennifer Obazuaye
Chronic respiratory illness is a major health issue for the Bayside community, with nearly one-third of people living with disability in Brisbane South affected by a chronic lung condition.
To help improve care for these residents, Respiratory Clinical Nurse Consultant Jennifer Obazuaye has been awarded a Research Support Scheme Novice Grant to lead new research in pulmonary rehabilitation nursing.
“The Novice Grant offers a fantastic pathway for clinicians like me to build research capability with structured support from experienced researchers,” she said.
"It allows me to draw on my clinical experience to lead research that improves care outcomes through evidence-based practice.”
Her project will examine the essential contribution of nurses in pulmonary rehabilitation programs for people with long-term lung conditions.
“This research will look at the roles, responsibilities and skills of pulmonary rehabilitation nurses across Queensland, and develop a clinical standard to guide the highest level of nursing practice,” Jennifer said.
“This will help ensure every patient receives consistent, evidence-based care no matter where they access pulmonary rehabilitation.”
Jennifer said the work was particularly important for the Bayside community.
“Chronic lung disease is a major issue locally with 30 per cent of people living with disability in Brisbane South experiencing a chronic lung condition.
"Demand is growing, especially across Bayside and the Southern Moreton Bay Islands.
"By defining the full extent of nursing practice, we can deliver more consistent, equitable care for our community,” she said.
Jennifer said the research aimed to strengthen nursing capability and improve patient outcomes across the state.
“The impact is twofold: advancing pulmonary rehab nurses to work at the top of their scope, and establishing a statewide clinical standard to ensure consistency,” she said.
She said she felt honoured to receive the grant.
“I’m grateful and excited to work with my co-investigators on meaningful research that enhances the capabilities of pulmonary rehabilitation nurses and improves outcomes for patients,” she said.