Evolution of the species 'expert nurse'. An examination of the practical knowledge held by expert nurses

The aim of this study was to examine the knowledge that expert nurses use in practice and the factors that influence knowledge use and development. A combined ethnographic and phenomenological methodology was used. Data were collected by questionnaires, interviews, workshops, observation visits and critical incident technique. Knowledge and expertise were found to have developed in response to the 'world view' held by expert nurses. Four distinct types of experts holding different knowledge bases emerged from the data.