ABSTRACT
Objective:
To analyze the expansion of nursing roles in primary care in the English National Health Service and the implications for professional practice.
Method:
qualitative research in case study format, held in London, England, in six primary care units. Data were obtained through interviews with nine nurses. After the thematic data analysis, two units emerged: the nurses' performance characteristics and effects of the expansion of nursing roles.
Results:
expansion of nurses' roles: consultation, diagnosis and drug therapy, case management and monitoring of chronic conditions. Repercussions: for the user, there was improved access, communication and comprehensive care, increased duration of consultations, resulting in greater adherence; for nurses, there was the expansion of professional skills, knowledge and professional recognition; to the health care system, it resulted in cost savings.
Conclusion:
benefits in expanding nursing roles, were visible, contributing to primary care quality.
Key words:
Nurse; Primary Care; Role of Nursing Professional; Drug Prescriptions; Clinical Protocols