5.6.2 Extended roles in nursing in Ireland Policy: Interpretations from a study in the acture hospital sector (366)
Anne Fahy, Lecturer, Nursing & Midwifery, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland anne.fahy@ul.ie
Abstract:
Background:
Irish general nursing has experienced tremendous change and development within the acute healthcare sector over the last decade in response to changes in health policy, demographics, technology, society and the need to contain healthcare costs (Department of Health and Children, 2003). Nurse's roles are developing and expanding with the intention to enhancing patient care (An Bord Altranais, 2000).
Aim:
Explore registered nurses perceptions of role expansion in the acute health care setting.
Objectives:
- Understand and clarify role expansion within nursing
- Provide recommendations to guide practice development
Methodology:
The study adopted a triangulation approach using both survey and focus group data collection methods. A questionnaire developed specifically for the study was administered to a sample of nurses in two Acute Hospitals in the West of Ireland (n=500). In addition three focus group interviews (n=17) was undertaken with a purposeful sample of nurses. The statistical package (SPSS™ Version 13) was used to analyse the quantitative data. The qualitative data was analysed using a thematic analysis approach (Braun and Clarke 2006).
Results:
Findings indicate there was considerable support among nurses to undertake role expansion with a strong commitment to their professional development. The importance of the nurse-patient relationship and maintaining a presence with patients, through the image of physical closeness or proximity was an essential requisite for the administration of high quality and holistic care. However there were concerns relating to accountability and litigation with some confusion surrounding the definition of expanded roles.
Conclusions:
There was a conditional willingness by nurses to engage in expanded roles recognising value to the patient’s experience, the organisation and the profession. `Back to the bedside` was a common theme woven throughout the transcripts as nurses believe expanded role promotes a quality and holistic safe approach to patient care.
Recommended reading list:
- An Bord Altranais. (2000) Scope of Nursing and Midwifery Practice Framework. Dublin: An Bord Altranais
- Braun, V. and V. Clarke, (2006) “Using thematic analysis in psychology.” Qualitative Research in Psychology. 3, 77-101
- Department of Health and Children. (2003) Health Service Reform Programme. Dublin: Stationery Office
Source of Funding: N/A
Level of Funding: N/A
Biography:
Anne, J. Fahy Qualifications MSc, BSc, RGN, RM Current post Lecturer Department of Nursing & Midwifery, University of Limerick Lecturer on the Dublin City University Distance BNS Undergraduate Nursing Programme Area of Teaching Undergraduate BSc general and midwifery nursing students common and discipline specific modules Supervisor of Masters Thesis and undergraduate final year projects Advisor to 1st 2nd and 3rd year undergraduate student nurses Research interests Student Competency Assessment development in clinical placement Nursing practice development Mixed methods research Publications Fahy, A. (2007) Perceptions of Role Expansion among Nurses in an Acute Hospital Setting in Ireland – A Mixed Methods Study Unpublished Thesis (MSc) University of Limerick Conference Poster Presentations Fahy, A. (2007) Perceptions of Role Expansion among Nurses in an Acute Hospital Setting in Ireland – A Mixed Methods Study. Presented at the 7th Annual Nursing & Midwifery Research Conference. Catherine McAuley School of Nursing & Midwifery, University College Cork.