Introduction of the professional nurse advocate role using a quality implementation framework

Abstract

Background: Implementation of the professional nurse advocate (PNA) role and the Advocating and Educating for QUality ImProvement model (A-EQUIP) in nursing is relatively new. The model aims to build personal and professional resilience, enhance the quality of care and support preparedness for appraisal and professional revalidation. Aim: To describe the implementation of the PNA role in a combined acute and community trust in England. Methods: A quality implementation framework was used to appraise and represent locally derived strategic activities for successful implementation of the role in an acute and community hospital in England. The content of this framework was derived from a synthesis of 25 implementation frameworks focusing on important elements understood to represent quality implementation. Findings: The article identifies strengths and weaknesses to implementation and ways to sustain early implementation success. Conclusion: Using a quality implementation framework can provide a clear path for the successful implementation of the professional nurse advocate role. Professional nurse advocates should be supported to develop a culture of effective supervision within their organisation.