Service user and carer experiences of the advanced nurse practitioner role in a memory assessment team.

Abstract

Advanced nurse practitioners (ANPs) within memory services can support prompt diagnoses of dementia. Further understanding of the role is necessary as evidence on its effectiveness is limited. To assess service user and carer satisfaction with the ANP role within Kirklees memory assessment team. A cross-sectional survey was undertaken to evaluate carer and patient perceptions of the ANP role in a local memory assessment team. The survey was developed using the Royal College of Nursing's four pillars as a structure: clinical/direct care practice, leadership and collaborative practice, improving quality and developing practice, and developing self and others. One hundred and fifteen surveys were sent out, and 85 were completed, a response rate of 73.9%. Patients expressed significant satisfaction with the ANP, in particular in the areas of direct clinical practice (84%) and quality of care received (87%). Patients and families are highly satisfied with the service provided by the ANP. High-quality research is needed on the cost effectiveness and outcomes of ANP interventions.