Nurse competence development through professional entitlements in the Skill-Mix Model in rural areas - a review of national and international practices.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: In the light of the growing complexity of healthcare delivery, it is important to emphasise the need for efficient and safe nursing care underpinned by high professional standards. Collaboration is key to preventing problems. The aim of the study is to review how nurses could improve their roles, and examines what is being done nationally and internationally, as well as in rural areas where access to healthcare is often more challenging.

REVIEW METHODS: Evidence synthesis was based on narrative analysis and a state-of-the-art review, to summarise the field of nursing competences. As the article is narrative, a systematic review and study quality assessment were not used.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE STATE OF KNOWLEDGE: In recent decades, nursing has evolved from being auxiliary staff to becoming an autonomous profession, with nurses now being recognised as independent medical professionals. The Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) pathway is now a desirable career option in over 70 countries. In response to an increase in areas with limited access to healthcare and a shortage of nursing staff, a model of intersecting competencies is being implemented ('skill-mix'), offering nurses greater autonomy and an expanded skillset, including leadership.

SUMMARY: The effective utilization of the competencies of different healthcare professionals requires careful categorization of patients' health-related problems and alignment with the available medical staff. The key to optimising the potential of nursing staff lies in acknowledging their pivotal role within the healthcare system. By leveraging their expertise in investigating and assessing patient health, the quality of treatment and boosting of staff morale can be enhanced, and ensure patient satisfaction.