Advanced and Specialist Nursing Practice in Emergency Surgery: The Team Approach

Abstract

In recent times, evidence to support the efficacy of advanced and specialist nurse practitioner roles has emerged within international literature. This has focused upon factors including quality of care, clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction and cost. Positive outcomes have also been reported within emergency and critical care settings. Within the context of advanced nurse practice posts in surgery, it is asserted that these nurses should have the freedom and authority to act autonomously in the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, including prescribing, of patients with multi-dimensional problems. These roles need to be integrated within the surgical multidisciplinary team and focused upon the provision of seamless care, in conjunction with medical staff and other team members.