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Optimizing the Role of Registered Practical Nurses in the Operating Room: A Two-Phase Qualitative Descriptive Study
Sherry Espin1, Sue Bookey-Bassett1, Alyssa Indar1,2
1Toronto Metropolitan University, Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing, Toronto, ON, Canada.
Summary
Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) roles in operating rooms vary across Ontario settings. Findings highlight differences in utilization, teamwork, and culture, informing strategies to address nursing shortages in specialty areas.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Workforce Planning
- Health Human Resources
- Specialty Nursing
Background:
- Current nursing shortages necessitate innovative health human resource planning.
- Targeted strategies are needed for specialty nursing areas like the operating room.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the current utilization of Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) in Ontario operating room settings.
- To understand RPN role diversity across different healthcare environments.
Main Methods:
- A two-phase qualitative descriptive study.
- Phase 1: Online survey (n=65).
- Phase 2: Semi-structured virtual interviews (n=13).
Main Results:
- Identified variations in RPN role utilization across urban, community, and private clinic settings.
- Highlighted differences in teamwork and work culture impacting RPN integration.
- Generated recommendations for RPN leadership, policy, professional development, and organizational support.
Conclusions:
- RPN utilization requires re-evaluation to support patient care in specialty areas amidst evolving healthcare landscapes.
- Strengthening the nursing workforce and addressing future human resource challenges is essential.
- New models of care must consider the evolving scope of practice for healthcare providers.
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