An Exploratory Descriptive Study on Task Shifting in East Africa

The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions of nurse leaders in Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda who have taken on expanded roles through task shifting. Understanding how nurses perceive task shifting directs education and training to more effectively meet population health needs in their communities. Participants were nurse leaders in countries with complex health care systems and few resources. Participants identified conflicting roles and expectations that were not consistent with their role preparation or scope of practice.