The Role of the Advanced Practice Nurse in the Academic Setting

Area of Science:

• Nursing Practice
• Healthcare Management
• Oncology

Background:

• Academic medical centers face evolving challenges in patient care delivery.
• Advanced practice nurses (APNs) are integral to optimizing healthcare outcomes.
• The role of APNs in implementing practice change requires further exploration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the implementation of practice change by APNs in academic medical centers.
• To identify strategies APNs use to enhance patient and staff outcomes.
• To understand the potential of APNs in shaping the future of cancer care.

Main Methods:

• A review of published peer-reviewed literature was conducted.
• Web-based resources and professional society materials were analyzed.
• Synthesis of current knowledge on APN-led practice change.

Main Results:

• APNs can significantly influence patient experience and care delivery settings.
• Programmatic changes across the continuum of care are feasible through APN leadership.
• Stakeholder engagement is crucial for successful project design and implementation.

Conclusions:

• Advanced practice oncology nurses, including Nurse Practitioners and Clinical Nurse Specialists, are pivotal in transforming cancer care.
• Effective implementation of practice change by APNs requires robust knowledge of change management and implementation science.
• APNs have a significant opportunity to shape the future of oncology care delivery and patient outcomes.