Implementation of the primary care nurse practitioner role in Ontario

The purpose of this descriptive study was to examine the implementation of the nurse practitioner role in primary care settings. Nurse practitioners who were certified by the College of Nurses of Ontario as Extended Class were surveyed. The questionnaire inquired about the nurse practitioners' professional characteristics, employment settings, scope of practice, practice pattern, and satisfaction with their role. The majority of the 166 respondents working as nurse practitioners were Baccalaureate prepared; has been in the role for a relatively short period of time; were employed in community health centers; and were able to practice to their full potential, within the expanded scope of practice. They saw patients who are primarily healthy or presenting with acute minor illness, and provided care with an emphasis on wellness. They were satisfied with their role. Directions for future research are presented.