195 8.1 Facilitating Successful NP Integration in LTC Practice

Successful NP integration into LTC requires a number of factors for success.

Knowledge and understanding of:

• Scope of practice of the NP
• Knowledge of the LTC sector
• Staffing/roles within the Home
• Residents and their complex histories
• Availability of resources (internally and externally)
• Collaborative practice models of care:
• Attending NP/Consultative NP

Communication:

• Prior to the initiation of the NP role
• Clear understanding of NP expectations
• Role clarity

NPs are a solution to supporting & improving residents’ care in LTC. For future integration of the NP role, the following needs to be considered^[1]:

• Maintain legislative reforms that were initiated during COVID-19 and continue to remove barriers to NP practices
• Clearly articulate the roles and responsibilities of NPs and physicians within the different models of care
• Conduct additional research or participate in research to determine the optimal care models with which to achieve the best outcomes for residents, staff, and the health care system
• Incentivize work in the LTC sector by providing competitive salaries for NPs
• Develop innovative programs to engage and educate new NPs to work in LTC settings