Outcomes and challenges of successful clinical nurse specialist role implementation: Participatory action research

Abstract

Abstract Aim To describe the clinical nurse specialist role and its outcomes and challenges. Design Participatory Action Research conducted in Finland between the fall of 2017 and the end of 2018. Methods A core participatory action research team (n = 10) led the design, implementation and evaluation of the research. Multiple data collection methods were used. The study is reported using the Enhancing the QUAlity and Transparency Of health Research (EQUATOR) guidelines for participatory action research. Results The clinical nurse specialist used most of the time in clinical patient care followed by clinical nursing leadership and scholarship activities. Outcomes of successful implementation led to increased visibility of nursing expertise, development, integration and quality assurance of nursing processes and practice, and promotion of knowledge translation and unit and collaborator cooperation. Furthermore, role challenges were also recognized.

Keywords

• action research
• advanced practice nursing
• clinical nurse specialist
• health services research
• nurse clinicians
• participatory research