In-hours Acute Home Visits by Advanced Nurse Practitioners in Primary Care: a qualitative study

Background: The extension of roles within the Primary Care Team is one approach recommended to address the shortage of GPs in the UK. A key aspect of care that Advanced Nurse Practitioners (ANPs) can undertake is acute home visits. Aim: To evaluate the perspectives of Advanced Nurse Practitioners performing acute in-hours home visits in Primary Care. Methods: The research methods consist of the collection of qualitative data in eight semi-structured interviews across a Primary Care locality which were then analysed via a process of thematic analysis. Findings: Three key themes were identified: providing holistic care; engaging with the home setting; and negotiating role ambiguity. Conclusion: Practices wishing to involve ANPs in acute home visits should ensure clear definition and good understanding of the ANP role. Effective inter-professional relationships should be fostered with appropriate mentorship and clinical supervision to support ANPs in optimising their contribution to acute home visits.