Introduction
The Registered Nurse Specialty Practice (RNSP) model optimizes Registered Nurse (RN) practice to best serve the public (defined as client and client population) by providing a framework for activities beyond entry-level competence. Employers and registrants engaging in self-employed practice utilize the RNSP model to develop, maintain and evaluate RN Clinical Protocols to meet the needs of the public in the practice environment. In all practice environments, RNs practice within their legislated scope of practice, and personal competence, as well as work within employer policies and processes.
RN entry-level competencies (ELC) establish the foundation for nursing practice. RNSPs are activities beyond entry-level competence and within the legislated scope of RN practice. The level of complexity of the RNSP informs the requirements for additional education and experience provided by the employer. The RNSP model supports a proactive approach to the delivery of health care, with the client at the centre. The model recognizes the RN at the point of care as the expert in the practice environment. RNSPs are developed using current evidence-informed practices and are considered by the employer and direct care RNs to be in the best interest of the individual client or client population in a particular practice environment.
Employers collaborate with RNs to develop, maintain and evaluate the care delivered through the RNSP model. The model can be implemented when all four components of the RN Clinical Protocol are in place. It is designed to be responsive to meet evolving health care needs and delivery approaches in an interprofessional practice environment.