How clinical observation enhances recruitment and selection

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Healthcare Management
• Clinical Practice

Background:

• A 2010 survey at Derby Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust identified 51 advanced clinical practitioners.
• Significant variations were noted in titles, pay bands, clinical skills, and academic qualifications among these practitioners.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address inconsistencies in the advanced nurse practitioner (ANP) role.
• To develop a local framework supporting ANP role development.
• To revise the interview process for assessing ANP skills, competencies, and knowledge.

Main Methods:

• Introduction of a local framework for ANP development.
• Review and revision of the ANP selection interview process.
• Incorporation of direct observation of clinical skills into the selection process.

Main Results:

• A standardized framework and revised interview process are now in practice.
• The new process enables managers to effectively assess applicants' skills, competencies, and knowledge.
• Clinical skills observation is now a component of ANP selection.

Conclusions:

• The implemented framework and revised interview process aim to standardize the advanced nurse practitioner role.
• The new selection process enhances the ability to identify and appoint suitably qualified ANPs.
• This initiative contributes to the professional development and consistent application of advanced nursing practice.