Developing evidence-based nursing roles: lessons learned from the health care integrator role

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Military Health
• Organizational Development

Background:

• Unique nursing roles are critical in specialized environments like the United States Air Force.
• Assessing the institutionalization of new roles is essential for effective healthcare delivery.
• Understanding implementation challenges aids in optimizing professional practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the institutionalization of a specific nursing role within the U.S. Air Force.
• To identify barriers and facilitators impacting the implementation of this nursing role.
• To provide insights for developing future evidence-based nursing positions.

Main Methods:

• Survey administered to individuals performing the unique nursing role.
• Data collected on time allocation for job tasks and additional duties.
• Inquiry into positive and negative professional experiences.

Main Results:

• 87% of respondents (n=45) reported successful implementation of the nursing role.
• Significant variation observed in the specific tasks performed by individuals in the role.
• Major organizational barriers to implementation were identified.

Conclusions:

• The nursing role is largely well-implemented within the U.S. Air Force.
• Addressing identified barriers and task variations can enhance role effectiveness.
• Study findings offer a model for developing other evidence-based healthcare positions.