The general attributes and competence for nurses in a single responder unit: A modified Delphi study

Area of Science:

• Prehospital Emergency Care
• Nursing Competencies
• Ambulance Services

Background:

• Ambulance services are evolving, necessitating new units like single responder units (SRUs).
• SRUs, staffed by a single nurse, assess patients and direct them to appropriate care, freeing up regular ambulances.
• A knowledge gap exists regarding the specific competencies required for nurses in SRUs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define the essential general attributes and competencies for nurses working in ambulance single responder units.
• To establish a clear understanding of the skill set needed for effective SRU nursing.

Main Methods:

• A modified Delphi technique involving three rounds was employed.
• Round one included focus group interviews analyzed via content analysis.
• Rounds two and three utilized surveys with a 4-point Likert scale, analyzed with descriptive statistics.

Main Results:

• Five broad competence categories and 19 subcategories were identified.
• Key attributes identified include effective communication with healthcare providers and the ability to manage patient encounters independently.
• Significant professional experience was also highlighted as a critical competency.

Conclusions:

• Independent patient assessment and treatment in complex prehospital environments are central nursing competencies.
• Effective communication and collaboration are vital for SRU nurses, as is the ability to build patient rapport.
• Prior experience with diverse patient populations and situations is necessary for SRU practice.