The development of the expanded role nurse: background and questions surrounding the project

In January, 1988 University Hospital in London, Ontario began a project to develop an expanded role for nurses who had Masters preparation and advanced knowledge and expertise in a clinical specialty. The rationale which support the decision to implement the project and a discussion of some of the issues relevant to that decision, are presented. An overview of the project goals is also included. The strengths, weaknesses and outcomes which have been identified during the first three years are dealt with in "Report on the Expanded Role Nurse Project" also published in this issue of the journal.