In:
Journal of Clinical Nursing, Wiley, Vol. 25, No. 1-2 ( 2016-01), p. 99-108
Abstract:
The objective of this study was to test the reliability and construct validity of the N urse P ractitioners' R oles and C ompetencies S cale. Background The role of nurse practitioners has attracted international attention. The advanced nursing role played by nurse practitioners varies with national conditions and medical environments. To date, no suitable measurement tool has been available for assessing the roles and competencies of nurse practitioners in A sian countries. Design Secondary analysis of data from three studies related to nurse practitioners' role competencies. Methods We analysed data from 563 valid questionnaires completed in three studies to identify the factor structure of the N urse P ractitioners' R oles and C ompetencies S cale. To this end, we performed exploratory factor analysis using principal component analysis extraction with varimax orthogonal rotation. The internal consistency reliabilities of the overall scale and its subscales were examined using C ronbach's alpha coefficient. Results The scale had six factors: professionalism, direct care, clinical research, practical guidance, medical assistance, as well as leadership and reform. These factors explained 67·5% of the total variance in nurse practitioners' role competencies. Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the overall scale was 0·98, and those of its subscales ranged from 0·83–0·97. Conclusion The internal consistency reliability and construct validity of the N urse P ractitioners' R oles and C ompetencies S cale were good. The high internal consistency reliabilities suggest item redundancy, which should be minimised by using item response theory to enhance the applicability of this questionnaire for future academic and clinical studies. Relevance to clinical practice The N urse P ractitioners' R oles and C ompetencies S cale can be used as a tool for assessing the roles and competencies of nurse practitioners in T aiwan. Our findings can also serve as a reference for other Asian countries to develop the nurse practitioner role.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0962-1067
,
1365-2702
DOI:
10.1111/jocn.2016.25.issue-1pt2
Language:
English
Publisher:
Wiley
Publication Date:
2016
detail.hit.zdb_id:
2006661-2
