Advanced practice nurse competencies to practice in emergency and critical care settings: A scoping review

AimAdvanced Practice Nurses are expected to provide lifesaving care to patients with complex acute illnesses in emergency and critical care settings. However, little is known about their competencies and barriers to practice in emergency and critical care settings. This review investigated these nurses' competencies to practice.MethodsA scoping review was conducted in accordance with Arksey and O & PRIME;Malley's framework. Extensive research searches were conducted using seven electronic databases: MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, Ichushi Web, Mednar and GreyNet International. Definitions and explanations of Advanced Practice Nurse competencies were categorized into elements and grouped according to similarity.ResultsThe database searches identified 2,483 studies, and data were extracted for 23 studies. Analysed studies were published between 2000 and 2021 and conducted in eight countries. Seven competencies were identified: performing advanced practice nursing, acute patient care, diagnostic assessment, interdisciplinary collaboration and consultation, leadership and system management, documenting patient care and supporting patient and family decision-making.ConclusionThis review identified competencies unique to Advanced Practice Nurses in emergency and critical care settings. Further research is required to facilitate understanding of the crucial roles of advanced care nurses among healthcare providers. What is already known about this topic?Advanced practice nurses contribute to patient outcomes in emergency and critical care settings.There is no review of the competencies to practice required or experienced by these nurses.What this paper adds?Advanced practice nursing competencies include performing advanced practice nursing, acute patient care, diagnostic assessment, interdisciplinary collaboration and consultation, leadership and system management, documenting patient care and supporting patient and family decision-making.The implications of this paper:Further qualitative studies may be needed to better understand the types and status of Advanced Practice Nurses' competencies to practice in emergency and critical care settings.