Author Description

Nurse practitioners (NPs) are registered nurses who have completed a formal program of supervised clinical practice and academic study to prepare them to perform a wide range of advanced nursing functions, as well as functions traditionally performed only by physicians. As a result of health care reform, under-supply of health care practitioners in remote areas, and financial pressures, interest in the role of the NP is growing in Ontario. This discussion paper discusses and define the role of NPs, presents a review of the literature on NPs, outlines their history and current status in Ontario, and discusses reasons for promoting NPs in the health system and the implications for the NP role in health care reform. It then reviews the scope of practice of NPs and proposes a model for use as a framework for the introduction of NPs into health care settings where they have not yet been working. Issues regarding implementation of the NP role are also examined, including priority areas for introduction of NPs in Ontario. Finally, a recommendation is presented for the level of educational preparation for NPs.