Community care gerontological nursing: the independent nurse's role

This focused ethnographic study examined the perspectives of seven nurses developing independent practices serving community-based elderly individuals. Six of the nurses' clients, five of whom were foster care providers, were also interviewed. The nursing activities described by these nurses included assessment, documentation, teaching, delegation and assignment, monitoring, advocacy, and support. The services valued by the clients included the nurses' problem-solving approach, advocacy with physicians, and assistance in meeting state licensure requirements. The clients also identified the following benefits: support in providing care to their residents, continuity of care, and personal relationships they developed with the nurses.