Perceptions of physicians and nurses about the role of intensive and critical care nurses in the intensive care units at tanta university hospital

Intensive and critical care nurses are contributing to care for critically ill patients in the intensive care units through their participation on the multidisciplinary team and in collaborative with physician during practice roles. Objective: This study was conducted to assess perceptions of the physicians and nurses about the role of the intensive and critical care nurses in the intensive care units. Setting: The study was carried out in the three intensive care units (neurology, cardiology and medical) at Tanta University Hospital in Gharbia Governate. Subjects: The subjects of the study consisted of fifty five physicians and nurses (23 physicians, 25 intensive and critical care nurses and 7 supervisor nurses). Tool: One tool was used, it is divided into two parts related to socio-demographic data and assessment of perception about role of the intensive & critical care nurses, it was included (50) items covered six responses; accessibility (5) items, knowledge (10) items, performance (10) items, care coordination and communication (15) items, psychological role (5) items and system issues (5) items. Results: Intensive and critical care nurses were seen as less competent in critical thinking, case judgment, manage complex problems, education of new staff, communication skills with family and interdisciplinary team. In addition to the psychological role and social care aspects not involved into nursing care plan as well as less skills in the care of system issues. Discussion and Conclusion: Responses reflected advantages of the intensive and critical care nurses as a member of medical management team in the intensive care units, but many other roles of critical care nurses in the intensive care units must be cleared and identified.