AACN Publishes Resource on Scope and Standards for Progressive Care Nursing

On March 11, the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) published “AACN Scope and Standards for Progressive Care Nursing Practice.” According to a press release, this is the first time a stand-alone edition is tailored distinctively to this growing specialty.

The press release said, “Previously included in a combined edition with critical care nursing practice, the new edition describes the specialized practice of nurses providing and/or influencing care for acutely ill patients who are moderately stable with an elevated risk of instability. These patients require a high intensity of care and vigilance.

“Progressive care nurses provide direct care based on the needs of patients. These patients are in hospital units named progressive care units or in other areas such as telemetry, stepdown, intermediate, adaptable acuity, emergency departments and long-term acute care hospitals. Progressive care nurses can also provide virtual nursing support by monitoring acutely ill patients from remote locations.”

The resource covers the expected level of practice and performance for registered nurses covering neonatal, pediatric, adult, and geriatric populations. The resource also covers competencies required to meet standards. Further, it outlines the role of progressive care nurses in delivering patient- and family-centered care.