Enrolled nurse skill extension: metropolitan myth or rural reality?
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this study was to examine whether the position of 'after hours clinical support enrolled nurse' is embracing clinical skill extension in the acute surgical area.


METHODS
Experienced enrolled nurses employed in a supernumerary capacity documented all activities with which they were engaged over a six-month period.


METHODS
Six surgical wards within a tertiary referral hospital, Sydney, Australia.


METHODS
Enrolled nurses working after hours in an extended support role in a supernumerary capacity.


RESULTS
Data demonstrated that, in this study, the 'after hours clinical support enrolled nurse' was primarily performing routine nursing activities. Although the number of extended skills (n=13) performed could be considered diverse for an enrolled nurse, many were seldom performed. The most frequently performed extended skills were patient escorts and undertaking bladder ultrasounds with a mobile scanner. Medication administration was rarely performed.


CONCLUSIONS
The role primarily incorporates basic nursing care with minimal scope for extended skills. The paper recommends that basic nursing practices be delegated to assistants in nursing to enable the 'after hours clinical support enrolled nurse' to effectively support registered nurses and extend their own practice.
Blay
Nicole
N
Acute Care Nursing Professorial Unit, St. George Hospital, Sydney, Australia. blayn@sesiahs.health.nsw.gov.au
Donoghue
Judith
J
D000328:Adult; D001315:Australia; D002983:Clinical Competence; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009726:Nurses; D019035:Rural Health Services; D019037:Urban Health Services; D000078329:Workforce