Exploring advanced nursing practice in stroke services: a scoping review

Abstract

Background: Stroke care is becoming increasingly reliant on advanced nursing practice (ANP); however, little is known about these roles within the stroke specialty. Aims: To explore the current knowledge of advanced nursing practice in stroke services internationally, specifically, the conceptualisation of ANP and the rationale for its implementation. Methods: Arskey and O'Malley's scoping review methodology was employed, and six academic databases were used. Findings: Two key themes were identified; ‘role development’ and ‘four pillars of advanced practice’. The review identifies that ANP is implemented primarily to provide acute stroke care. Conclusions: Current research does not clarify the rationale for implementing these posts or how ANP is conceptualised. This review does identify that stroke ANP incorporates the four pillars of advanced practice (clinical, research, leadership and education) and was implemented to improve the quality of stroke care. Barriers and facilitators to implementation were also identified.