Nurses' perceptions of the advanced practice nurse in cardiac intensive care

Abstract

The aim of this study is to explore the nurses' perceptions of the advanced practice nurse (APN) in the cardiac intensive care unit. Since minimal research has been carried out locally on this issue, an exploratory design was chosen. Data was collected through a questionnaire containing both closed-ended and open-ended questions. The participants were chosen using non-probability sampling as random sampling was not an option. A 72.2% response rate was obtained. The participants identified a variety of APN roles including those of a practitioner, educator, researcher and planner. However, the role of the educator followed by that of the researcher were given the most importance. Half of the nurses felt that APN should not take over specific clinical skills. The perceived required years of experience in the field ranged from 5 to 15 years. In addition a specialist course preparing the individual for the role of the APN should be undertaken. The majority of the respondents felt that this role should be introduced locally, though not all professions would be in favour of this. In fact, most of the nurses suggested that the doctors would most oppose the APN, yet they themselves would most favour this role. Introducing a new idea, in this case the APN, deals with factors which will both encourage as well as hinder this role. These issues were identified by the nurses participating in this study. Suggestions for practice as well as further research and education have been made.