Learning Objective #1: Describe role transition among advanced neonatal nurse practioners in Great Britain

Learning Objective #2: Identify strategies for enhancing successful role transition among advanced neonatal nurse practitioners in Great Britain

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The purpose of this project was to describe role transition among neonatal nurse practitioners in Great Britain. Research in the U.S. has demonstrated that Advanced Neonatal Nurse Practitioners (ANNPs) in the neonatal ICU are cost-effective, improve continuity of care, and have a positive impact on family and infant well-being. Few studies have examined role transition in advanced practice, and none in ANNPs. The results of studies examining role transition in primary care nurse practitioners indicated that transition to the role is fraught with anxiety, stress and self-doubt. The ANNP role is relatively new in Great Britain and the nursing system differs from the U.S., with increased structure and support in the nursing hierarchy for the novice. Examining role transition in Great Britain may provide insights that will enhance successful role transition among ANNPs, not only in the Great Britain, but also in the U.S. This study used a qualitative descriptive methodology to examine ANNP role transition in Great Britain. The mailing list of the British ANNP Association was used to recruit subjects, following ethics board approval. The sample consists of 187 ANNPs practicing in Great Britain. Data collection occurred through online recruitment and completion of the questions about role transition. Data were collected on demographics, such as length of time practicing as an ANNP and educational preparation. The ANNPs were asked to describe their work responsibilities, as well as what the work was like for them, especially as they first became an ANNP. They were also asked an open-ended question concerning transition to the ANNP role. Data collection is in progress. Content analysis will be used for analyzing the data, extracting patterns and themes regarding role transition. Trustworthiness of the data will be assured using Lincoln and Guba's (1985) criteria of credibility, dependability, and confirmability.