Nursing Aotearoa New Zealand and the establishment of the National Close Contact Service: A critical discussion

ABSTRACT

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in inestimable morbidity and mortality across the globe. The healthcare and political leadership of the pandemic within Aotearoa New Zealand has been internationally recognised. The pivotal role of nurses and nursing practice in the establishment of National Close Contact Service (NCCS) has been fundamental in protecting the health of our nation. Using exemplars, and the themes of shared human vulnerability and professional authority, this critical discussion draws on theoretical and philosophical nursing perspectives to demonstrate the authors' involvement in the establishment of the NCCS.