Being an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners (ARNP) often means being a decision-maker, an assistant, a mediator, and a supporter. According to 2015 Florida Statuses, the ARNP may monitor/alter drug therapies, initiate some therapies in certain cases, order diagnostic tests, monitor patients suffering from chronic disorders, identify behavioral issues and provide treatment recommendations (The 2015 Florida Statutes, 2015). I have been engaged in all of these procedures.
However, my most frequent tasks are monitoring drug therapies, ordering diagnostic tests and providing treatment recommendation concerning patients’ behavior. Due to limited resources of our facility, I implement such tasks as accompanying patients to specific areas to do some tests. I make sure that the records are properly maintained, especially when it comes to various procedures. I often participate in the process of decision making when it comes to prescriptions. In many cases, the state of the patient may change, and there is a need to make a quick decision. I often make these decisions. However, they are based on detailed discussions with the physician.
We discuss the state and treatment of each patient. I report about patients’ psychological state and behavior, which is important for the development of the most effective treatment strategies. I have all the necessary information due to my close contact with patients. I often recommend some drugs, and I also may advise not to use medications associated with behavior and emotional state of patients.
I am in a close contact with patients and their caregivers. I work with adults, and I believe such close contacts, as well as maintenance of proper relationships, are essential for the healing process. I pay a lot of attention to the development of proper relationships with patients and their caregivers, which is achieved through talks, examining the records, and so on. I explain the goals of various procedures and tests. I also tell about the health conditions and associated issues. I explain the benefits of as well as risks associated with the treatment or particular drugs and procedures. The patient feels more confident as he/she knows what to expect.
They become more collaborative, which is beneficial for the healing process. I try to provide psychological support, which is crucial in the process of healing. Some nurses ignore this aspect of their work due to the workload. It is often believed that adults do not need as much psychological support as the elderly or children. However, I try to balance specific clinic procedures and psychological support. I think this population is as vulnerable as the rest of age groups. Clearly, I pay most attention to people with chronic diseases as they are often depressed.
I would also like to add that close collaboration with the physician is an important part of my practice. Buppert (2014) states that the collaboration is often difficult due to gender differences and the power distribution issues. Nevertheless, I do not experience these difficulties. We make a good team where each member contributes in accordance with his/her responsibilities.
In conclusion, I would like to note that I perform various tasks in accordance with the scope of practice of the ARNP. However, I try to do more when it comes to communication with both the hospital staff and patients. I try to provide high-quality healthcare services that are based on such values as caring, safety, quality, integrity, and continuous development.
Reference List
Buppert, C. (2014). Practitioner’s business practice and legal guide. Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett Publishers. Web.
The 2015 Florida Statutes. (2015). Web.