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Competency and Role Development in Advanced Nursing Practice Following a Swiss Master's Cohort Through Education and
Astrid Braun1,2, André Fringer1, Heidrun Gattinger3
1School of Health Sciences, ZHAW Zurich University of Applied Sciences, Katharina-Sulzer-Platz 9, Winterthur, 8400, Switzerland, +41 58 934 43 41.
JMIR Research Protocols
|March 30, 2026
Summary
This study tracks advanced practice nurse (APN) students in Switzerland to understand how their skills and role perceptions evolve. Findings will clarify APN roles and inform nursing education for better healthcare integration.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Education
- Healthcare Systems
- Professional Development
Background:
- Advanced nursing practice (APN) programs exist in Switzerland for two decades.
- Role ambiguity for APNs hinders consistent implementation in the Swiss healthcare system.
- Limited research exists on APN competency and role development during graduate studies and early practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To understand changes in APN competencies and role perceptions during master's programs and post-graduation.
- To identify factors influencing APN development.
- To explore challenges faced by APNs during this transition.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal convergent mixed-methods design.
- Quantitative data collected via the Advanced Practice Nursing Competency Assessment Instrument at four time points.
- Qualitative data gathered through semistructured interviews at three time points, with data integration via joint displays and narrative weaving.
Main Results:
- Data collection is ongoing, with baseline and mid-program quantitative data (n=141 at T0) and initial qualitative interviews (n=26) completed.
- Preliminary analysis of T0 and T1 quantitative data and I1 qualitative data is underway.
- Full-time data collection expected to conclude by May 2026; part-time by August 2027.
Conclusions:
- The study will provide longitudinal evidence on APN competence and role development in Switzerland.
- A conceptual model of competence acquisition and role perception will be developed.
- Findings aim to inform curriculum, enhance role clarity, and support APN role implementation in Swiss healthcare.
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