The Leadership Experience of Advanced Practice Nurses in a Tertiary Hospital Setting : Focus Group Interview
10.34250/jkccn.2023.16.3.48
- Author:
Eun Sook KIM
1
;
Nayeon KIM
;
Su Jung CHOI
;
Nari KIM
;
Young Hee KIM
;
Jung Yoon LEE
;
Eun-Hye KIM
Author Information
1. APN, PhD, Samsung Medical Center Cicely Saunders Institute, King’s college London, Visiting Researchera
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:
Journal of Korean Critical Care Nursing
2023;16(3):48-61
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Purpose:: This study aimed to identify and describe the leadership experience of advanced practice nurses (APN).
Methods:: Data were collected through five focus group interviews in 2022 with a total of 24 APNs in groups of 4-6 participants. All interviews were recorded, transcribed, and data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.
Results:: Nine categories emerged from three main themes. First, “Roles of APN leadership” comprised a trusted clinical expert, a moderator for the entire team, a resource person for nurturing the next generation, and a change agent for improving clinical practice. Second, “Facilitators and barriers to APN leadership” included ambiguity of APN role, support system, and institutional backing. Third, “Strategies for strengthening APN leadership competencies” comprised systematic leadership education and speaking up for APNs.
Conclusion:: APNs are passionate about their expertise and practice, but lack the legal and organizational authority and support to provide successive leadership. Systematic education including leadership and organizational advocacy will enable APN to provide leadership that benefits patients, institutions, and the wider healthcare system.
