Advanced nursing practice in renal medicine

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Nephrology Nursing
• Advanced Practice

Background:

• Renal nursing faces challenges due to evolving healthcare policies and increased service demands.
• Concerns exist regarding over-specialization in nursing potentially fragmenting services and devaluing registered nurses.
• The introduction of advanced practice roles is seen as crucial for navigating these complexities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the implementation and impact of an Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP) service in a renal unit.
• To assess the value and potential of the ANP role in a specialized renal care environment.

Main Methods:

• A personal account of the first 12 months of implementing an ANP service in a renal unit.
• Qualitative observation and reflection on the establishment and function of the ANP role.

Main Results:

• The introduction of two ANPs in the renal unit in September 1999.
• Initial 12-month period of service implementation and observation.

Conclusions:

• The Advanced Nurse Practitioner role demonstrates significant potential and benefits within the renal nursing setting.
• This advanced practice model can effectively address challenges and enhance service delivery in specialized care areas.