Sources of satisfaction, dissatisfaction and well‐being for UK advanced practice nurses: A qualitative study

Aims

To examine and explore organisational and role conditions that promote or inhibit job satisfaction and workplace well‐being for advanced practice nurses.

Background

The advanced practice role is common across the world. Research shows it is well regarded by patients and improves patient outcomes, but there is little evidence about what the role is like for nurses.

Methods

A subsample of an existing cohort of advanced practice nurses were invited for interview. Twenty‐two nurses were interviewed over the phone. Interviews transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Four themes were derived from the data; ‘the advanced nurse role and professional identity’, ‘feeling exposed’, ‘support for the advancement of the role’ and ‘demonstrating impact’.

Conclusion

Nurses report considerable dissatisfaction with role identity and concerns relating to isolation on a daily basis, and these negatively affect well‐being. However, they also identified significant satisfaction with the role, particularly when well‐supported and able to recognize the unique contribution that they made to the lives of patients and to their organisations.

Implications for nursing management

Clear role definitions, provision of high‐quality clinical supervision and addressing issues of isolation are likely to improve the job satisfaction of advanced practice nurses.