A postcolonial queer analysis of aboriginal queer clients' experiences of health care services in St. John's, Newfoundland

This thesis examines the gaps between health care services aimed at Aboriginal queer individuals living in St. John’s, Newfoundland and their health care needs. I used a multi-methods research design that includes interviews and demographic surveys, unobtrusive observation and qualitative content analysis. I conducted semi-structured interviews with institutional representatives from selected health related organizations – Eastern Health, Planned Parenthood Newfoundland and Labrador, the AIDS Committee of Newfoundland and Labrador, and St. John’s Native Friendship Center; as well as a transgender activist and three people who identify as Aboriginal and queer. I conducted observational research at two public seminars on Aboriginal people and health. Finally, I carried out qualitative content analysis of organizational reports and webpages of the selected community organizations. Using a postcolonial queer framework that analyzes how Newfoundland and Labrador’s colonial history is reflected in current health care realities I argue that the lack of appropriate services and culturally insensitive delivery of services reproduce the historical marginalization of an already vulnerable group.

Development of an education resource for families and clients navigating through end-of-life care with at-home palliation

Background: Community health nurses (CHNs) play a pivotal role in providing end-of-life care to clients diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. Providing quality end-of-life care is an ethical obligation. Eastern Health’s palliative end-of-life care program (PEOLC) offers nursing care, equipment, services, and support. However, the caregiver’s need for practical information about end-of-life issues is not addressed. Purpose: To develop an educational resource to assist clients and families during end-of-life and to provide a framework for new CHNs in home palliation. Methods: An informal Needs Assessment, a literature review, an environmental scan, and consultations with four CHNs involved with home palliation. Results: An educational resource was developed to address the practical end-of-life issues identified in the literature review and consultations. Conclusion: An improved delivery of care for at-home palliation in the community for clients and families, and a framework for new CHNs.