[The role of the expert nurse in a medical ward: an experience of implementation]

Abstract

. The role of the expert nurse in a medical ward: an experience of implementation.

Introduction: There is a growing need to recognize and develop advanced competencies among healthcare professionals, along with the definition of advanced career pathways. To ensure system sustainability and workforce retention, the recognition of new roles is a key strategy for ensuring high-quality of care.

Aim: To describe the implementation of the expert nurse with advanced competencies in a medical department.

Methods: The project involved three phases: 1. defining the expert nurse's role and areas of responsibility; 2. planning and implementing a new organisational model; 3. evaluating the experience through two focus groups conducted with healthcare professionals from the medical department, six months after implementation.

Results: From January 2023 to January 2024, the project was developed based on the principles of advanced clinical practice, including education, research, leadership, and clinical practice. The new model of care is based on the assignment of 10 expert nurses, identified by nurse manager and involved in a structured training program. Following its introduction within the medical department, the expert nurse quickly became a key point of reference for the team. The new role provided ongoing supervision and mentoring, facilitated communication among staff, and promoted shared and integrated care planning.

Conclusions: The expert nurse could be an effective solution to the need for redesigned care models that prioritize continuity in medical settings. However, further studies are needed to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of this model through quantitative analysis.