Developing a framework for social care nurses: enhanced or advanced practice? A critical literature review

This is the first ebook in a series of three publications that form part of a larger programme that was conducted in October 2023 – April 2024. The programme aimed to develop a framework for advanced or enhanced practice in nursing in social care settings in the United Kingdom. To this end, there is a need to understand the competencies required for enhanced and advanced nursing practice in social care, and to articulate the training that is currently on offer for nursing staff working in social care settings. The overall programme hypothesis is that the evolving social care system requires the deployment of both enhanced and advanced nursing competencies and the creation of career grade opportunities; such competencies require further description and definition to demonstrate the benefits of employing enhanced and/or advanced social care nurses. The research of the overall programme is structured around three phases. Phase 1 involves comprehensive desk-based research to establish a baseline for subsequent investigations. Phase 1 is concluded within this e-book.

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“This e-book represents a pivotal first step in the exploration of Advanced or Enhanced levels of practice for registered nurses within social care settings. Through comprehensive desk-based research and an extensive review of the existing literature, the research team manages to establish a crucial baseline for subsequent investigations, setting the stage for the development of a framework aimed at advancing the practice of social care nursing. I was thrilled to see that this initial piece of work already clarifies the intricate role of social care and initiates discussions around its challenges and gaps, laying the groundwork for further exploration.”

Juliet Anderson, Director, Buckinghamshire Health and Social Care Academy