The role of the practice nurse. An exploratory study

Area of Science:

• Primary care
• Nursing practice
• General practice

Background:

• Limited research exists on the role of practice nurses in Australia.
• Evidence suggests practice nurses function beyond administrative tasks, engaging in nursing duties.
• This study explores effective collaboration between general practitioners (GPs) and practice nurses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify areas of effective shared care between GPs and practice nurses in Australia.
• To understand the dynamics of collaboration in primary healthcare settings.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study employing semistructured interviews.
• Interviews conducted with GPs and practice nurses across eight general practices.
• Inclusion of a GP without a practice nurse and nurse practitioners from a Community Health Centre for comparative insights.

Main Results:

• GPs and practice nurses have developed effective working relationships that enhance patient care.
• True shared care was limited, with notable exceptions in wound care.
• Collaboration primarily focuses on complementary roles rather than fully integrated shared care models.

Conclusions:

• The current healthcare funding model in Australia restricts the optimal use of practice nurses' skills.
• GPs must see patients before fees can be claimed, hindering practice nurses' autonomy in routine care (e.g., blood tests, BP monitoring, wound dressing).
• Modifications to the funding model could enhance practice nurse utilization and necessitate updates in their education and accreditation.