An exploration of the levels of clinical autonomy of advanced nurse practitioners: A narrative literature review.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

The aims of the review are to synthesise current evidence about advanced nurse practitioner clinical autonomy and consider how this may inform clinical practice and research.

BACKGROUND

Clinical autonomy is one of the cornerstones of advanced nursing practice globally, yet there is limited synthesis of clinical autonomy in the literature.

DESIGN

This is a narrative literature review.

DATA SOURCES

The databases Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, EBSCO host, Cochrane Library, CINAHL and MEDLINE were searched for publications between 2005 and 2020 inclusive.

REVIEW METHODS

A systematic approach was used to analyse the literature reviewed. Two reviewers undertook quality appraisal.

RESULTS

Nineteen articles were selected. Four major themes emerged: (1) 'ANP Stepping Up'-moving into and accepting advanced nursing practice roles and clinical responsibilities; (2) 'ANP Living It'-ANPs' ability to act independently including an understanding of task mastery and self-determination; (3) 'ANP Bounce-back ability'-depicted in challenges that threaten their ability to practice clinically autonomously; (4) 'ANP Setting in Motion'-indirect care activities and service-level improvements.

CONCLUSION

A clearer understanding of advanced nurse practitioner clinical autonomy could help develop more in-depth knowledge. Research of advanced nurse practitioners' clinical autonomy would improve full utilisation in clinical practice.