Facing the challenge of practice development in community nursing

Abstract

The large number of job titles associated with practice development within nursing can cause confusion as to the exact role of the person working within the development sphere. However, there is a recognized need for these development roles in the absence of clinical managerial positions and within the climate of continuing changes in the NHS. This article explores the skills required for practice development and is, in part, a reflective account of the work achieved over a 2-year period. The authors argue for clarity of purpose and continuing commitment from within the organization in order for these roles to achieve some degree of recognition, with specific reference to a community health care setting.

Using practice development methodology to develop children’s centre teams: Ideas for the future

“…8 NDUs were centres of innovative practice 9 funded by the National Health Service (NHS) as part of a commitment to develop nursing practice. 10 The aims of NDUs included reducing the theory/practice gap; 11 increasing utilization of evidence-based practice; 12 development of a bettereducated workforce; 13 and movement away from the medical model towards more patient-focused care. 14 Recognition that the modernization agenda could only be achieved through multidisciplinary working precipitated a shift from nursing development to PD.…”