Nursing roles and responsibilities conducted by registered nurse/BSN student dyads across ambulatory clinical sites in medically underserved communities

Abstract

BackgroundIncreasingly, registered nurses (RNs) are incorporated into ambulatory care teams. Yet, limited research exists on the roles of RNs across these settings. PurposeThe purpose of this study was to examine the roles performed by RNs (and their senior BSN students) in primary care and public health settings. MethodsWorking with nine RN preceptors, 15 students tracked all patient visits during a 150-h immersion experience using the Typhon™ clinical-tracking software. ResultsThe BSN student/RN dyads conducted 1218 patient visits completing 8536 RN roles in 15 distinct categories. Most patients were African American and female (n = 736; 60.1 %) with an average age of 38.4 (SD 22.12). Patient demographics varied by site. The most common roles performed by the RN/student dyad were health assessment, behavioral health screening, and telehealth. Roles of the RNs and the student level of independence were significantly different across sites (Fisher's Exact test [p < .001]). ConclusionsOur results argue that RNs are providing substantial value to these FQHC and public heath settings. An academic/practice partnership, including a shared curricular review, can provide a strategic advantage for educators to ensure that health systems realize the unique roles for RNs and educators provide 21st century education.