Describe how the role of advanced registered nurse transformed over time. Consider shifts in scope and expectations in the 20th and 21st centuries. In what ways will the advanced registered nurse role and responsibilities continue to evolve and emerge as the American health care system changes? 300 words APA Purchase the answer to view it
The role of the advanced registered nurse has undergone significant transformation over time, with shifts in scope and expectations occurring throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. In the early 20th century, advanced nursing practice was primarily focused on providing care in hospitals and clinics. Nurses were seen as subordinate to physicians and were expected to carry out their orders without question. However, as the century progressed, nurses began to assert their autonomy and expand their scope of practice.
One significant development in the role of advanced registered nurses in the 20th century was the creation of the nurse practitioner (NP) role. NPs were first introduced in the 1960s as a response to the shortage of primary care providers, particularly in rural areas. NPs were trained to provide primary care services, including diagnosis, treatment, and management of common acute and chronic conditions. This marked a significant shift in the role of nurses, as they were now able to diagnose and prescribe medication, functions that were previously reserved for physicians.
Another important shift in the role of advanced registered nurses in the 20th century was the diversification of advanced practice specialties. Nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and clinical nurse specialists emerged as distinct specialties within advanced nursing practice. These specialties allowed nurses to focus their expertise in specific areas and provide specialized care to patients.
In the 21st century, the role of the advanced registered nurse has continued to evolve in response to changes in the American healthcare system. The Affordable Care Act of 2010 expanded access to healthcare services for millions of Americans, leading to increased demand for primary care providers. This has further elevated the role of nurse practitioners, who are well-positioned to fill the primary care gap. The Consensus Model for APRN Regulation, released in 2008, also played a pivotal role in shaping the future of advanced nursing practice by establishing uniform regulatory standards for APRNs across the United States.
As the American healthcare system continues to change, the role and responsibilities of advanced registered nurses are expected to further evolve and emerge. One major factor driving this change is the aging population and the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. Advanced registered nurses will be called upon to play a pivotal role in the management of chronic conditions, providing comprehensive care and promoting health and wellness.
Furthermore, the growing emphasis on preventive care and population health management is also likely to impact the role of advanced registered nurses. Nurses will be expected to lead initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes at the community level. This may involve working in collaboration with other healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers to develop innovative strategies to address health disparities and promote health equity.
The integration of technology into healthcare delivery is another important factor that will shape the role of advanced registered nurses in the future. Telehealth and remote patient monitoring technologies are becoming increasingly common, allowing for greater access to care and more personalized patient interactions. Advanced registered nurses will need to be proficient in the use of these technologies and adapt their practice to provide high-quality care in a digital healthcare environment.
In conclusion, the role of the advanced registered nurse has undergone significant transformation over time, with shifts in scope and expectations occurring throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. The creation of the nurse practitioner role and the diversification of advanced practice specialties have expanded the scope of practice for advanced registered nurses. As the American healthcare system continues to change, the role and responsibilities of advanced registered nurses are expected to further evolve and emerge in response to factors such as the aging population, emphasis on preventive care, and the integration of technology into healthcare delivery. Advanced registered nurses will play a crucial role in providing comprehensive and high-quality care, addressing health disparities, and promoting health equity in the future.