Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioners as Leaders: Perceptions, Self-Identity, and Role Congruity

Abstract

Introduction: This study aimed to gain an understanding of practicing acute care pediatric nurse practitioners' (AC-PNPs') perceptions of themselves as leaders in both clinical and professional contexts.

Method: This qualitative study was conducted at a midwestern quaternary care children's hospital. Cultural domain analysis, semistructured interviews, and free listing techniques were employed to identify areas of consensus and variation among a convenience sample of AC-PNPs.

Results: Findings demonstrated the AC-PNPs have a limited self-view of leadership.

Discussion: Nurse practitioners need additional leadership capacity and capability building during graduate education, the transition to practice, and throughout their careers.

Keywords: Advanced practice registered nurse; educational preparation; leadership; nurse practitioner; qualitative.