Helping society’s most vulnerable — those suffering dementia and sick children are the hallmarks of two leading Griffith University nursing researchers.
For their tireless work, Professor Wendy Moyle and Associate Professor Amanda Ullman have been recognised at global health organisation Sigma’s 30th International Nursing Research Congressin Canada.
Professor Moyle, best known for her research on dementia, depression and delirium, was inducted into the International Nurse Researcher Hall of Fame for her lifetime of achievements and Associate Professor Ullman was presented with the 2019 Emerging Nursing Research Award.
Director of the Healthcare Practice and Survivorship Program at Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Professor Moyle has focused her research on finding evidence for best practice in the care of older people and in particular, those with dementia.
She recently completed the largest and most rigorous trial of a social robot in dementia care. Within her social robotics laboratory, she evaluates new and existing technologies, and she works internationally with engineers and IT specialists in the development of new technologies.
“Professionally this award has been an amazing experience to be recognised by colleagues for the research I have been able to achieve in my lifetime to date,’’ she said.
“It’s also a recognition of the achievements of the team of people I have worked with over a number of years and the wonderful people with dementia and carers who have given us the opportunity to engage with them.
“Personally, the award has been humbling in thinking that my research may have helped people with dementia and their carers to live a more quality of life.”
Associate Professor Ullman isa Paediatric Nurse and Associate Professor, with honorary appointments atthe Queensland Children’s Hospital and the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital.She leads a program of interdisciplinaryresearch topromotehigh quality vascular access care for children with complex and critical health conditions, such as cancer and sepsis.
“Recognition as an Emerging Nurse Researcher from Sigma Theta Tau International, is a career highlight,’’ she said.
“This distinguished community of nurses has changed healthcare and being acknowledged by this group so early in my career is humbling and motivating.
“I see tremendous value in clinical research led by nurses. We are in the centre of a patient’s healthcare experience, and we have a responsibility to provide effective care, based on science.
“With the support of my outstanding clinical collaborators, I am excited to think what I can achieve in my career to help sick children and their families.”