Pneumococcus in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples: the role of Aboriginal health workers and implications for nursing practice.
BACKGROUND
Pneumonia is a common cause of hospitalization in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women.


OBJECTIVE
This article seeks to describe the importance of immunizing against pneumonia in Aboriginal Australians and suggest strategies for screening and follow-up.


METHODS
An integrative literature review, using both published and gray literature was undertaken to identify methods of screening and surveillance strategies for pneumococcus.


RESULTS
The literature was summarized under the following themes: Pneumococcal disease; prevention strategies; access to care; improving access to vaccinations; culturally competent interventions and the role of Aboriginal health professionals.


CONCLUSIONS
Community controlled conditions and the role of the Aboriginal Health Workers are seen as critical to reducing health disparities. Nurses can play a critical role in bridging the gap between mainstream and community controlled organizations. Working to increase the numbers of Aboriginal health professionals is a critical step in improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon, 2. University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
Hiba
H
Deek
Penelope
P
Abbott
Louise
L
Moore
Joyce
J
Davison
Sonya
S
Cameron
Michelle
M
Digiacomo
Sarah J
SJ
McGrath
Tessa
T
Dharmendra
Patricia M
PM
Davidson
D001315:Australia / Q000453:epidemiology; D005260:Female; D006282:Health Personnel; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009736:Nursing Process; D011008:Pneumococcal Infections / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D024382:Professional Role