The purpose of this study was to explore the acceptance of a novel role, the advanced practice nurse in lung cancer (APNLC), from the perspective of patients and healthcare professionals in a country lacking a regulatory oversight for advanced practice nursing (APN) roles.
This study utilized a qualitative methodology using focus groups and semistructured interviews. Participants were purposively sampled in a Swiss academic medical center. Two focus groups were conducted: the first included nurses (n = 5) and the social worker, while the second targeted physicians (n = 6). The APNLC and patients (n = 4) were interviewed using semistructured interviews. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis.
Three main themes were identified: APNLC role identification, APNLC role-specific contributions, and APNLC flexible service. Physicians and patients clearly recognized the APNLC role, noting contributions to continuity of care, psychosocial support, and enabling symptom self-management. Nurses perceived the APNLC role as overlapping with the oncology nurse role. Flexibility in providing care was seen as the strength of the APNLC role, yet this also posed organizational challenges.
The new role appears to be well accepted by patients and physicians, yet barriers posed by nursing colleagues remain challenging.
Based on existing literature and the present findings, we propose a model to guide future implementation and enhance acceptance of the APNLC role. This model comprises three actions: (a) formalizing nursing role expectations, (b) providing appropriate support and resources, and (c) promoting a national plan for APN regulation.