In-hours acute home visits by advanced nurse practitioners in primary care: a qualitative study.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The extension of roles within the primary care team is one approach recommended to address the shortage of GPs in the UK. A key aspect of care that advanced nurse practitioners (ANPs) can undertake is acute home visits. AIM: To evaluate the perspectives of ANPs performing acute in-hours home visits in primary care. METHODS: Qualitative data were gathered in eight semi-structured interviews across a primary care locality, then analysed via a process of thematic analysis. FINDINGS: Three key themes were identified providing holistic care; engaging with the home setting; and negotiating role ambiguity. CONCLUSION: Practices wishing to involve ANPs in acute home visits should ensure clear definition and good understanding of the ANP role. Effective interprofessional relationships should be fostered with appropriate mentorship and clinical supervision to support ANPs in optimising their contribution to acute home visits.