The role and scope of retrieval nurse practitioners in the UK.
BACKGROUND
The first independent paediatric retrieval nurse practitioners (RNP) in the UK and Europe were appointed in 2006 in one hospital Trust. Since then, many have been appointed around the UK but the range of responsibility and scope of the role is unknown as well as possible geographical variability.


OBJECTIVE
The aim of this paper is to explore the role and scope of paediatric retrieval nurse practitioners in the United Kingdom (UK).


METHODS
A two part questionnaire was sent to all RNPs identified by the regional retrieval/transport centres. Information was sought about the role and scope of RNPs and how the role may have changed since appointment. RNPs were asked to self-assess their own ability in a variety of technical and leadership skills.


CONCLUSIONS
The majority of respondents felt their role had expanded since appointment. RNPs reported that they would now lead the team for any critically ill infant or child where previously they were retrieving stable or high dependency patients. Other expansions of their role included being on a middle grade tier of the medical rota, asked to undertake aeromedical transfers, providing the withdrawal of care at referring centres and non-medical independent prescribing.


CONCLUSIONS
This survey has revealed the changing role and scope of RNPs in the UK but most importantly, the increased responsibility of the roles. Over 80% of RNPs rated their leadership skills between proficient and expert on Benner's Novice to Expert Continuum (Benner, 1984).
Sister and Paediatric Retrieval Nurse Practitioner, Paediatric Intensive Care, Evelina London Children's Hospital, Guys and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
Jo
J
Davies
Paediatric Intensive Care, Evelina London Children's Hospital, Guys and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
Fiona
F
Lynch
Paediatric Intensive Care, Evelina London Children's Hospital, Guys and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
Andrew
A
Nyman
Paediatric Intensive Care, Evelina London Children's Hospital, Guys and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
Shelley
S
Riphagen
D006801:Humans; D007857:Leadership; D009722:Nurse Practitioners; D024802:Nurse's Role; D006113:United Kingdom
Advanced practice; Retrieval; Role development