Abstract
Nurse Practitioners (NPs) have proven their abilities and have been authorized to practice in many developed countries. NPs play some independent roles that previously were the roles of physicians. However, NPs have not been introduced in Japan. The main reason is that there is not enough evidence that nurses can practice independently from physicians to change the Medical Practitioners Act. The Japanese version of an NP, which is similar to a Physician Assistant, is under consideration for introduction in Japan. The Japanese version of NPs would be able to conduct specific medical treatments with a “comprehensive order” from a physician. Certified Nurse Specialists (CNSs) and Certified Nurses (CNs) are Advanced Practice Registered Nurses in Japan. The outcome evaluations of the performance of CNSs have been limited to the descriptive data of case reports. Studies that provide a high level of evidence and evaluate the work and skills of CNSs are necessary so that their abilities can be appreciated. One of the roles of CNSs is research. However, their education emphasizes clinical practice and the time allotted to research in the curriculum is limited. Nursing faculty members at universities are usually very busy providing education and do not have sufficient time to perform research. To obtain evidence that nurses can work independently, the educational system must allow nursing faculty members at universities to have more time for research and provide the education that would allow CNSs to collaborate with faculty members who perform research. Unfortunately, the fact that there is not enough evidence of nursing ability and this is the key reason of preventing introduction of NPs in Japan is not well known to nurses. It is necessary to tell and educate nurses the necessity of research and to encourage them doing it.
Highlights
Nurse Practitioners (NPs) have proven their abilities and have been authorized to practice in many developed countries
The fact that there is not enough evidence of nursing ability and this is the key reason of preventing introduction of NPs in Japan is not well known to nurses
While there are many problems to be solved, establishing Certified Nurse Specialists (CNSs) Master’s programs in universities will provide a systematic broad and high level of education in leadership skills, communication, logical thinking, and independent critical thinking, which are indispensable for advanced nursing practice
Summary
Nurse Practitioners (NPs) have proven their abilities and have been authorized to practice in many developed countries. The author describes the efforts that have been made, the existing barriers, the controversy over introducing NPs into medical practices, and the role and education of CNSs and CNs in Japan. At least six months of clinical practice with several case reports and various educational activities in the specialty are required, and the candidates must pass the JNA’s CNS examination in their chosen area of specialization They can practice as board-certified CNSs. They can practice as board-certified CNSs They are expected to provide effective high-quality nursing care and have the special knowledge and skills to care for persons, families and group members who have complex and difficult problems [24]. The JNA regulations define the six roles of CNSs as follows [25]: 1. Practice: Provide excellent specialized nursing care to persons, families and group members
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
