Evaluating the implementation of the Nurse Practitioner role within Canada’s National Ballet School

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the implementation of a nurse practitioner role within Canada’s National Ballet School (NBS) and evaluate the comfort level of student access care. Background: NBS is an internationally recognized professional ballet and academic program, with approximately 60% of their students living in residence. Until Fall 2020 there was no onsite regular primary care services. A family physician visited weekly to see residence students only. NBS recognized the need to provide more comprehensive primary care services to the students, as elite dancers may experience additional healthcare issues such as dance related injuries, nutritional issues and body dissatisfaction. The role of a nurse practitioner was implemented in Fall 2020. Methods: Utilizing a descriptive quantitative, multiple group design, a survey was distributed to participants. Participants included full-time students, parents and student-facing staff at the school. The study took place between July and August 2022. Findings: Participants included students (n=27), parents (n=22) and staff (n=20). Participants noted the positive impacts of having a nurse practitioner at the school, however students also noted some barriers. Four themes emerged regarding the role of the NP and comfort of students accessing care, including (1) Access to care; (2) Confidentiality and trust; (3) Increased support; and (4) Primary care. Conclusion: The role of the nurse practitioner was successfully implemented within the NBS. The evaluation demonstrated the nurse practitioner provided improved access to services and increased support.  While most staff and parents understood the scope of practice of the nurse practitioner, not all students did.