Project R-14867

Exploring and developing the leadership capabilities of advanced practice nurses in Flanders: An intervention mapping approach towards an action plan for leadership adoption and development (Research)

Unprecedented challenges and a changing complexity in global healthcare call for well-trained and highly educated nurses able to take up leadership responsibilities within integrated care teams. The role of advanced practice nurse (APN) fits this description and has been successfully implemented in a variety of healthcare settings by providing clinical leadership expertise in the workplace. However, despite their beneficial impact on clinical and patient outcomes across patient age groups, medical conditions, and care settings, little is known about the leadership capabilities and responsibilities of APNs active in Flemish healthcare. Moreover, research indicates Flemish APNs in peripheral and university hospitals struggle to take up their roles as leaders as they spent just under 5% of their working time on leadership activities and non-execution of their leadership tasks were associated with feelings of incompetence. For these reasons, the aim of this doctoral dissertation is twofold. First, a comprehensive needs assessment will be conducted, exploring the current state of Flemish APNs' leadership capabilities in addition to establishing their behavioural and environmental determinants in the implementation of leadership activities. Second, an action plan for the adoption and development of Flemish APNs' leadership will be constructed.

16 April 2024 - 15 April 2028