Evaluating an advanced nursing practice course: student perceptions.
OBJECTIVE
To explore students' perceptions of an advanced nursing practice course and factors affecting their progression.


METHODS
This descriptive qualitative study explored the views of ten students who were undertaking a master's-level course in advanced nursing practice at one English university. Data were analysed using a framework for thematic content analysis.


RESULTS
Five themes emerged from the data: improved clinical assessment skills, benefits of an educational framework, increased confidence, importance of networking and increased autonomy resulting in a positive change in students' advanced nursing practice role.


CONCLUSIONS
It is necessary to clarify and define advanced nursing practice to prevent confusion about professional boundaries. The study findings provide educationalists with broad and flexible indicators and benchmarks to devise module content that supports and develops the role of nurses in advanced practice.
Faculty of Health, Social Care and Education, Anglia Ruskin University, Peterborough. diane.shearer@anglia.ac.uk
Diane
D
Shearer
John
J
Adams
D002983:Clinical Competence; D004511:Education, Nursing, Graduate / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D017009:Professional Autonomy; D015397:Program Evaluation; D013338:Students, Nursing / Q000523:psychology*