The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) has published “AACN Scope and Standards for Progressive and Critical Care Nursing Practice,” a new resource that reflects nurses’ evolving role in an ever-changing healthcare landscape.
“Advances in scientific knowledge, technology development, healthcare reimbursement changes and issues related to an aging society all contribute to the ever-changing healthcare environment, affecting the climate in which nurses work. The challenge to nursing is to remain flexible in response to the increasingly complex needs of our patients,” said Julie Miller, AACN clinical practice specialist, in the statement.
The document includes examples written by task force members to reflect the potential ways the standards could be integrated into progressive and critical care nursing practice environments. Factors contributing to an unhealthy work environment and strategies to make work environments healthier are discussed.
“AACN Scope and Standards for Progressive and Critical Care Nursing Practice” describes and measures the expected level of practice and professional performance for progressive and critical care registered nurses and articulates the contributions of progressive and critical care nursing to a patient- and family-centered healthcare system,” Miller said.
A valuable resource for all nurses practicing in any progressive or critical care setting, the up-to-date guide offers a practical tool for students, faculty, nurses in practice, members of the interprofessional team and other nursing colleagues.
“AACN Scope and Standards for Progressive and Critical Care Nursing Practice” can be downloaded for free on the AACN website after signing in. A print version of the 49-page booklet can be purchased for $10 for AACN members and $25 for nonmembers from AACN’s online store.
