Flexible roles: a new model in nursing practice

The problem of how to retain experienced nurses within a given specialist field impacts on both nurses and managers. This article explores the development of a new clinical role which gives experienced E and F grade nurses the opportunity for personal and professional growth. Within the new role, 50% of the nurse's time is devoted to ward-based clinical work and the other 50% to developing an area of clinical practice or research, as is the case with some clinical nurse specialists. There is flexibility over the area of specialist interest to reflect the needs of the service and the expertise and interests of the individual, and there is also flexibility in relation to the clinical commitment which increases opportunities for job shares. This development has arisen from an organizational culture which recognizes the need for more flexible job classifications and work rules. This new model for practice also represents a new model for management. In fostering self-reliance within the workforce it enables all parties to work towards a shared vision which is mutually beneficial for nurses, managers, the organization and, most importantly, the patient.