The Strengths and Weaknesses of Pacific Islands Plastic Pollution Policy Frameworks

The rate of plastic pollution entering the environment is accelerating with plastic production predicted to increase by 40% over the next decade. Plastic pollution transcends territorial boundaries on ocean and air currents. Large Ocean Small Island Developing States (LOSIDS) are on the frontline of the plastics crisis and associated climate change impacts. This desktop gap analysis identified potential strengths and weaknesses in national policy frameworks in 52 key documents relevant to plastic pollution in ten Pacific LOSIDS. The study found considerable gaps in the vertical and horizontal integration of plastic pollution-related policy, and a lack of access to current science-based evidence on plastic pollution including evidence related to human health impacts and microplastics. The study concludes that, even if Pacific LOSIDS were to include best practice management of plastic pollution across all policy frameworks, they could not prevent plastic pollution, and that a plastic pollution convention is needed.

Supporting service change in palliative care: a framework approach

BACKGROUND

Palliative care services are increasingly identifying areas for improvement, then trying to create appropriate changes in response. Nurses in particular are often expected to take leading roles in quality improvement (QI) but are not necessarily trained or supported in these processes.

METHODS

A framework approach to change was developed to guide services through a change cycle and delivered via workshops by representatives of three Australian national projects. Participants were predominantly nurses (80%), with the majority (63.7%) over the age of 50.

FINDINGS

The workshops and the framework were positively evaluated, with participants feeling confident in a number of QI-related activities following workshop training.

CONCLUSION

Recognising and addressing problems in clinical practice and service delivery is an important way for nurses to ensure quality care for patients; however, they need support in developing the skills and knowledge that are essential to successful QI activities.