Geriatric patients in the emergency department: Development of an ANP role from the perspective of the multiprofessional team

Background: Ever-increasing numbers of geriatric patients lead to challenges in emergency departments (ED). Aim: The aim of this study is to identify the need for change in emergency care and discuss the integration of an Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) based on the practical experience of nurses and physicians. The focus lies on the interdisciplinary cooperation. Methods: Within the scope of a qualitative research approach, guided interviews with five physicians and seven nurses from two Austrian emergency departments were conducted. The qualitative content analysis according to Mayring was used for data analysis. Results: Five central main categories emerged. Nurses and physicians describe growing challenges in the care of geriatric patients in emergency departments due to a high workload, time pressure and lack of resources as well as a healthcare supply that does not meet the specific needs of geriatric patients. The integration of geriatric specialised nurses was associated with an improved patient care. Based on the structure, process and outcome criteria of the Nursing Role Effectiveness Model (NREM), the core components of an ANP role are described. Conclusion: The expansion of nursing competences and the development of defined care pathways should be further accelerated. The findings integrated in the NREM form the groundwork for the role description of the Geriatric Practice Nurse (GPN) in the ED.