Professional competence required in advanced practice nursing in critical care: An exploratory qualitative study

Abstract

Aim: To identify the required competencies of advanced practice nurses (APNs) working with patients in critical care units in Norway.

Design: An exploratory qualitative design.

Methods: Four focus group interviews were performed with 18 nurses who worked in critical care units. The data were examined by inductive content analysis following Graneheim and Lundman's approach.

Findings: Our study found that APNs in critical care require the following professional competencies to meet the needs of patients characterised by greater age, comorbidities and increased complexity: (1) intrapersonal skills as revealed in the subthemes of self-awareness; motivation and commitment; strong mental health and upholding ethical standards, (2) advanced clinical decision-making skills as identified in the subthemes of integration of theory and practice; complex practical and technical skills; dealing with increased delegated responsibility and taking the lead in managing increased practice complexity and (3) interpersonal skills, including peer guidance, practising collaboratively and the ability to position oneself.

Keywords: advanced practice nursing; critical care; master nursing education; professional competence; qualitative study.