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Abstract:
Diminished numbers of bedside care providers and support personnel for registered nurses have contributed to declining self-fulfillment and an exodus from the profession. RNs are expected to provide knowledge-based, competent care, yet they may not have the support staff to achieve this outcome. Nurse extender systems have been introduced in hope of changing this situation. One such nurse extender program is founded on the belief that the development of a voluntary relationship between the RN and a support person will result in a productive, synergistic partnership. The development of this relationship and the impact of the partnership concept as it relates to clinical application are explored here.