Practice nurse appraisal: evaluation report.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Professional Development
• Healthcare Management
• Appraisal Systems

Background:

• General Practice Nurses (GPNs) increasingly perform tasks previously done by General Practitioners (GPs).
• The existing Scottish GP appraisal scheme's framework may be adaptable for GPN appraisal.
• This study explored the feasibility of adapting GP appraisal processes for GPNs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the adaptability of the GP appraisal paperwork and process for GPN appraisal.
• To gather feedback from both GPNs and GP appraisers on the adapted system.
• To identify areas for improvement in a potential GPN appraisal scheme.

Main Methods:

• Eight GPNs modified existing GP appraisal documentation.
• Ten GP appraisers conducted interviews with GPNs using the adapted paperwork.
• Qualitative and descriptive evaluations were collected from both GPNs and appraisers.

Main Results:

• GPNs found the adapted documentation helpful for preparation, participation, and future objective planning.
• GPs perceived the appraisals as relevant, non-judgmental, and developmental, incorporating GPNs' perspectives.
• GPNs preferred appraisal by trained nurse colleagues over GP employers, indicating a need for paperwork refinement.

Conclusions:

• The GP appraisal framework shows potential for replication in GPN appraisal with modifications.
• Engaging trained nurse appraisers is crucial for a successful GPN appraisal system.
• Future research should focus on external nurse appraisers, training, and resource needs for GPN appraisal.