Nurses and nurse practitioners. Part 2: Perspectives on care

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Healthcare Professional Development

Background:

• The nurse practitioner (NP) role has expanded, sparking debate about their professional trajectory.
• Concerns exist that NPs are shifting towards a "mini-doctor" model, diverging from core nursing values.
• NPs assert their aim is to become "maxi-nurses," expanding their capabilities within nursing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the professional development aspirations of nurses and nurse practitioners.
• To investigate whether nurse practitioners' future goals align with the "mini-doctor" or "maxi-nurse" perception.

Main Methods:

• This study compares the perspectives of nurses and nurse practitioners.
• It focuses on their opinions regarding future professional development pathways.

Main Results:

• This article is the second in a two-part series comparing nurse and nurse practitioner viewpoints.
• Findings will elucidate the specific professional development goals held by each group.

Conclusions:

• Understanding these aspirations is crucial for defining the future scope and identity of the nurse practitioner role.
• The study aims to provide evidence-based insights into the evolving landscape of advanced nursing practice.