The AG-ACNP as a Building Block for NP Specialization in Tertiary Care Center ICUs:Results from interprofessional focus groups to develop a specialty curricula
Methods: Three qualitative interprofessional focus groups were conducted to elicit essential critical care content and skills that new AG-ACNPs need to practice effectively in tertiary care medical centers. Twenty four participants included physicians, pharmacists, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and respiratory therapists from a variety of intensive care units. Specialties included surgical/trauma, medical, neurological, cardiac/cardiothoracic, and anesthesia.
Conclusions: Three overarching themes emerged: “Specific Disease & Population Knowledge,” “Clinical Teaching” and “Communication”. The disease specific knowledge was discussed and organized by anatomical body systems. Clinical teaching discussed specific ideas and methods to integrate knowledge into bedside practice. Whereas, the communication theme focused on all aspects of interprofessional communications, including those with family, nursing and collaborating physician colleagues. Specific skills and topics for simulation were identified, however, consensus was not reached when trying to rank these items. In addition to the knowledge and skills training, the groups agreed simulation was an essential component to reinforce standards of clinical practice. The members felt learners need to experience patient care challenges over and over again to become proficient.
Implications for Practice: The findings outline additional knowledge beyond entry level AG-ACNP preparation required for new AG-ACNPs to effectively care for critically ill patients in tertiary care medical center ICUs. These findings can serve as the foundation for an advanced critical care curriculum.