Literature review of the impact of nurse practitioners in critical care services

Abstract

Internationally, Critical Care Nurse Practitioners are demonstrating substantial positive patient, service and nursing outcomes. Critical Care Nurse Practitioner models were cost effective, appropriate and efficient in the delivery of critical care services. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTISE: In Australia, there was minimal evidence of Critical Care Nurse Practitioner impact on adult, paediatric or neonatal intensive care units. The international evidence suggests that the contribution of the role needs to be strongly considered in light of future Australian service demands and workforce supply needs. In Australia, the Critical Care Nurse Practitioner role and range of activities falls well short of international evidence. Hence, it was necessary to scope the international literature to explore the potential for and impact of the Critical Care Nurse Practitioner role. The review leaves little doubt that the role offers significant potential for enhancing and contributing towards more equitable health services.

Evolution of Critical Care Cardiology: Transformation of the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit and the Emerging Need for New Medical Staffing and Training Models

“…150,151 Moreover, the integration of advanced practice providers (nurse practitioners and physician assistants) into the cardiac critical care team can improve patient outcomes, including reduced length of stay and decreased complications, particularly among the chronically critically ill population. [152][153][154] Advanced practice providers with specific training and experience in cardiac conditions contribute to cost-effective care, improved staffing, and continuity of care.…”

The Application of the Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Role in a Cardiovascular Patient Population

“…12,14,15 On a daily basis, in an effort to reduce hospital length of stay, mortality and morbidity, and hospital readmission rates, the ACNP is constantly evaluating avenues to contain cost while providing safe and efficient care, increase patient satisfaction, and ensure the plan of care comprises action plans to ensure patient safety. 8,10,12,16,17 As a result of the ACNP's consistent vigilance over these clinical indicators, patients who received care from ACNPs had the same clinical outcomes as patients who were managed by hospitalist-led care. 14,17 This case study highlights the role of an ACNP caring for an acutely ill patient hospitalized over 70 days.…”

Professional Development and Mentorship Needs of Nurse Practitioners

“…Studies have consistently found that NPs can deliver primary care comparable to that provided by primary care physicians at equal or better quality and lower cost (Dierickvan Daele, Metsemakers, Derckx, Spreeuwenberg, & Vrijhoef, 2009;Flaskerud, 2010;Fry, 2011;Mundinger et al, 2000;Rossiter, 2013). The literature indicates that NPs provide effective, high-quality care and can safely supplement physician care to increase healthcare access in the United States.…”