Job Analysis Based on Working Hours and Activities of Oncology Advanced Practice Nurses

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to analyze the actual working hours of an oncology advanced practice nurse (APN) at a university hospital according to the duties and tasks outlined in the job description. METHODS: An assessment tool for this study was created based on the job description of APN as defined by the Korean Nurses Association, and was later verified by a specialist party. Twenty-three oncology APNs recorded their nursing activity on the assessment tool. The working hours and distribution were analyzed according to specific duty and task. RESULTS: Average working hours per day for APNs totaled 9.3 hours. Time for duties was allocated as follows in order of priority 28.0% for therapeutic intervention and 19.8% for clinical decision making. Time allotted for tasks was distributed as follows 19.5% for special nursing care and 9.8% for planning treatment and nursing interventions. CONCLUSION: This study allowed insight into the actual time spent by oncology APNs on duties and tasks outlined in the job description. These findings should contribute to management of the changing role of oncology APNs. Furthermore, the results may be used as a basic resource for the continued professional development of the work of oncology APNs.