Scoping study into wound management nurse practitioner models of practice

Area of Science:

• Nursing Practice
• Healthcare Services Research
• Professional Roles in Healthcare

Background:

• The role of wound management nurse practitioners (WMNP) is evolving, necessitating an understanding of their practice parameters.
• Identifying how these specialized nurses measure patient outcomes is crucial for service improvement and professional development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the models of service for wound management nurse practitioners (WMNP) in Australia.
• To identify the practice parameters and patient outcome measurement methods employed by WMNPs.

Main Methods:

• A scoping study utilizing survey methodology was conducted with authorized WMNPs in Australia.
• A 59-question questionnaire was distributed to WMNPs via an online peer review group.

Main Results:

• A 71% response rate (n=15) was achieved from WMNPs employed in the public sector.
• Key activities included wound photography, patient education, Doppler assessment, debridement, and counseling.
• Most WMNPs collected data on service and wound parameters to monitor and improve patient outcomes.

Conclusions:

• The study provides critical baseline data on the professional group of WMNPs.
• Information gathered includes patient problems managed, interventions, resources utilized, and outcome measurement strategies.