Nurse Practitioners Rising to the Challenge During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Long-Term Care Homes

This study aims to understand the NPs' roles in optimizing resident care and supporting LTC staff during the pandemic.RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: This exploratory qualitative study employed a phenomenological approach. A purposive sample of 14 NPs working in LTC homes in Ontario, Canada was recruited. Data was generated using semi-structured interviews and examined using thematic analysis.RESULTS: Four categories relating to the NPs' practices and experiences during the pandemic were identified: a) containing the spread of COVID-19; b) stepping in where needed; c) supporting staff and families; and d) establishing links between fragmented systems of care by acting as a liaison.DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS: The findings suggest that innovative models of care that include NPs in LTC homes are required moving forward. NPs embraced a multitude of roles in LTC homes, but the need to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 was central to how they prioritized their days. The pandemic clearly accentuated that NPs have a unique scope of practice, which positions them well to act as leaders and build capacity in LTC home.PMID:33659982 | DOI:10.1093/geront/gnab030
Source: The Gerontologist - Category: Geriatrics Authors: Source Type: research