Conceptualizing an Expanded Role for RNs

Abstract

In our changing health care system, the role of registered nurses (RNs) has become indistinguishable from other nursing and health care providers’ roles. The purpose of this research was to explore the perspectives of nurse leaders and direct care RNs about the existing and future RN scope of practice. This research used an interpretive description analysis on data that was garnered from nurse leaders and RNs through separate focus groups. Participants identified existing threats to their roles, examined their scope of practice and proposed changes to the RN scope of practice. Specific areas that were identified included leadership, advocacy and expansion of RNs practices were dominant themes.