Regulation of advanced nurse practice: its existence and regulatory dimensions from an international perspective

Abstract

AIM: To explore the regulation of advanced nurse practice internationally and to identify differences and commonalities. BACKGROUND: Regulation of advanced practice nursing does not occur in many countries. Ireland is currently in the minority in regulating advanced practice at a national level. KEY ISSUES: Lack of regulation poses difficulties for national governments and for society due to uncertainty in advanced practice concept and role. METHODS: A literature review of 510 scholarly nursing papers published in CINAHL, PubMed and MEDLINE between 2002 and 2013 and 30 websites was undertaken. RESULTS: There is a lack of consistency in legislative systems internationally. Nursing organisations have recognised advanced nurse practice by regulation in some countries and by voluntary certification in others. CONCLUSIONS: Research has demonstrated that care delivered by advanced nurse practitioners has enhanced patient outcomes yet regulation of advanced practice is not undertaken in most countries. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSE MANAGER: Nurse managers need to know that criteria for the regulation of advanced practice are in place and reflect the minimum requirements for safe practice.