The benefits of 'advanced clinical practice' (acp) training and education for key stakeholders. A systematic, mixed-method, literature review

Global Virtual Summit on World Nursing - May Webinar

May 11-12, 2021 | Webinar

Vikki-Jo Scott

University of Essex, School of Health & Social Care, England

Scientific Tracks Abstracts: JNC

Abstract :

Background: For many years reference has been made to ‘Advanced Clinical Practice’ and ‘Advanced Clinical Practitioners’ (ACP) and attempts have been made to control the use of this title by education providers, employers, and health practitioners. In 2017 a number of professional bodies collaborated to create the ‘Multi-Professional framework for Advanced Clinical Practice in England’, (Health Education England 2017). This sets out the definition of ACP, the scope of practice and practitioners this applies to, and the standards and capabilities that are expected in order to practice under this title. Whilst this falls short of regulation of the title, it has now provided a benchmark by which education and training providers can badge their products as leading to advanced clinical practice, employers can use to select individuals to work in ACP roles or undertake ACP related tasks and individuals can provide evidence against to support their credentials as an ACP. Aim: The review aimed to establish what the evidence base is for claims made regarding the benefits and impact of ACP for key stakeholders in this field. Method: Mixed method systematic literature review drawing upon empirical evidence to inform a narrative interpretive synthesis. Results: 44 papers of mixed methodology were identified. Convenience sampling was common, with use of self-report from a sub-set of the diverse ACP community. There was an absence of longitudinal research, particularly that might evidence outcome measures such as cost effectiveness. Consensus could be found regarding the definition, barriers, and facilitators of ACP; that it can be split into ‘substitution’ and ‘supplementation’ roles, and that the clinical practice element of the role dominates. Variation is evident in the training, education, scope of practice, and regulation of ACP. The diversity found contributes to limited evidence of personal positive impact for health professionals in becoming an ACP.

Biography :

Vikki-Jo Scott is a Registered Nurse with a background in Critical Care Nursing. Since working in academia she has focused on Continuing Professional Development for Health and Social Care professionals. This includes leading the MSc in Health Care Practice and the Advanced Clinical Practice Apprenticeship which provides a flexible, modular route for health professionals undertaking post-registration education in their field of clinical practice. She is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy with a Masters in Learning and Teaching and up until 2020 was the Dean of the School of Health & Social Care at the University of Essex, England. As well as returning to clinical practice to work in Critical Care during the Covid-19 crisis she is currently undertaking a PhD focussed on Advanced Clinical Practice.