BSH22-EP74 The emerging advanced nurse practitioner role in haematology

Published Date: 31st March 2022

Publication Authors: Jackson R, Keegan D

Abstract
Advanced nurse practitioners (ANPs) are experienced healthcare professionals often considered to be ‘the link’ between medicine and nursing. The position carries a high degree of autonomy and complex decision-making, supported by a master’s degree. ANPs are integral members of the multi-professional team with a significant contribution to the patient journey. The role is becoming more valued within the haemato-oncology setting, supporting patients throughout their disease pathway.

The ANP role is hindered by role clarity and scope of practice issues when compared with the traditional ‘clinical nurse specialist’ (CNS) role. This can cause anxiety, insecurity and role dissatisfaction for the ANP consequently leading suboptimal performance. The lack of precedent for the new ANP role by CNS colleagues can lead to criticism further increasing stress levels, resulting in a hostile work-environment and feelings of professional isolation. A lack of support and leadership in their new role can also add to this feeling of professional isolation. In addition, a lack of role regulation in the United Kingdom has resulted in misconception about the role and this therefore impacts on how the role is viewed in professional clinical practice.

Following completion of advanced practice training and sharing experiences of other trainee ANPs within haematology. The author found that creating a visual poster presenting a comparative ‘day in the life’ of both the ANP and CNS could help clarify some of the key differences between the two roles. The poster found that despite some blurring between the roles, further clarity about each of their responsibilities and scope of practice consequently helped future ANPs to shape their role and how the two interlink and work together. The poster explores how the ANP role bridges the gap between nursing and medicine creating a more holistic approach to patient assessment and their journey and how it is integrated within the haematology team, working together with experienced CNS to improve patient outcomes, reduce waiting times for medical input and overall creates a formidable nursing workforce to support our cancer patients.

 

Spencer, R; Jackson, R; Keegan. (2022). BSH22-EP74 The emerging advanced nurse practitioner role in haematology—does it cause confusion or provide support to the traditional clinical nurse specialist role?. British Journal of Haematology. 197 (Suppl 1), 219-220

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