ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: The objective of this review was to explore existing literature related to advanced practice nurse professional advancement programs, to examine and map the evidence, and to identify any gaps in the literature. INTRODUCTION: Internationally, there is literature regarding the implementation and benefits of professional advancement programs for staff nurses, but there is scant literature addressing professional advancement programs for advanced practice nurses. Professional advancement programs may enhance workplace engagement and foster retention by empowering employees to grow and excel. INCLUSION CRITERIA: This scoping review considered studies that included advanced practice nurses in direct patient care roles participating in professional advancement programs. The concept of the review was advanced practice nurse professional advancement programs and related criteria and characteristics (eg, length of service, performance review, educational preparation) and outcomes (eg, improved recruitment, retention, employee satisfaction). Studies conducted in any setting and geographical location where advanced practice nurses were employed were included. METHODS: Studies published in English from 1965 to search date were included. The databases searched included PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, and PsycINFO. The search for unpublished evidence and gray literature included ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, MedNar, and various hospital websites. Retrieval of full-text studies and data extraction was performed independently by two reviewers. The extracted data is presented in diagrammatic or tabular form with an accompanying narrative summary. RESULTS: Nine descriptive studies were included in this review. All nine studies detailed the names of advancement programs, and provided characteristics and criteria for advancement for those participating in the programs. In addition, six studies described benefits of advancement, two studies described outcomes associated with advancement, and two studies described outcomes and benefits. CONCLUSION: There are few advanced practice nurse professional advancement programs discussed in the literature. In the included studies detailing these programs, there were wide variations in the names, criteria, and characteristics. There is also limited data available regarding outcomes associated with advanced practice nurse professional advancement programs.
Subject(s)
Hospitals , Personal Satisfaction , HumansABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: The objective of this review is to explore existing literature related to advanced practice nurse professional advancement programs in order to examine and map the evidence, and identify any gaps in the literature. INTRODUCTION: Most hospital systems utilize professional advancement models for their staff to recognize and reward employees who exceed expectations. Advanced practice nurses in direct patient care were previously not included in most advancement programs because of the novelty of the role. Implementation of an advanced practice nurse advancement program in a hospital system could help alleviate burdens by increasing retention and decreasing turnover, thus improving quality outcomes and stability of the health system. INCLUSION CRITERIA: This scoping review will consider studies that include advanced practice nurses in direct patient care roles participating in professional advancement programs. The concept is advanced practice nurse professional advancement programs and related criteria and characteristics (e.g. length of service, performance review, educational preparation) and outcomes (e.g. improved recruitment, retention or employee satisfaction). Studies that have been conducted in any setting and geographical location where advanced practice nurses are employed will be included. METHODS: Studies published in English from 1965 to present will be included. The databases to be searched include PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus and PsycINFO. The search for unpublished evidence and gray literature will include ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, MedNar and various hospital websites. Retrieval of full-text studies and data extraction will be performed independently by two reviewers. The extracted data will be presented in diagrammatic or tabular form with an accompanying narrative summary.
