The Current Status of Professional Medical Support Staffs in Medical Institutions with over 500 Beds / 임상간호연구

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study was to investigate the nationwide operational status of the professional medical support staffs (PMSS) who practice the expanded roles in the hospital setting. METHODS: The data were obtained through survey from 36 hospitals with over 500 beds from 25th May to 12th July 2016. Data from 1,666 PMSS were analyzed. RESULTS: Since the job titles varied, we classified them into 5 groups according to their roles; advanced practice nurse, clinical nurse expert, PA (physician assistant), coordinator, and others. There were differences in the operation status of PMSSs depending on the region, nurse staffing grade and number of hospital beds. Qualification criteria varied from hospital to hospital, and almost half of the hospitals didn't have any qualification standards for them. There were differences in age, educational level, clinical careers, rewards, and job satisfaction in 5 groups. Especially PA group had low salary, poorer working conditions, more difficulties in performing their work, and lower job satisfaction than other groups. Most PMSS (99.5%) were using a delegated prescription authority, however only 68.3% had job description and 19.9% had documented delegated role. CONCLUSION: Adequate training curriculum, documented delegated roles, and the protocols for legal protection and efficient medical services are needed.