A & E nurses' constructs on the nature of nursing expertise: a repertory grid technique

Understanding the role of knowledge in the practice of expert nephrology nurses in Australia

“…The findings of the present study are consistent with the existing literature of domain‐specific (nephrology nursing) knowledge. The nature of expert knowledge is such that it is very specific to the domain in which the expert practices, that is, it is context‐ or content‐specific (Norman et al ., 1985; Edwards, 1998) and that having both domain knowledge and relevant experience is essential for any expert (Naylor, 1987; Manley et al ., 2005). Domain knowledge, according to the existing literature, informs practice and practice, in turn, shapes knowledge.…”

“…The existence and acceptance of expert nurse practice have been evident by the increasing amount of literature that has become available (e.g. Jasper, 1994; Brown & Tiavale, 1996; Adams et al ., 1997; Edwards, 1998; Christensen & Hewitt‐Taylor, 2006). Since Benner (1984) first applied the Dreyfus and Dreyfus model to nursing, the interest in expertise has been gaining momentum.…”

Nephrology nursing: blurring the boundaries: the reality of expert practice

“…Several authors (Jasper, 1994; Adams et al. , 1997; Edwards, 1998), however, believe the description of expert nursing practice is incomplete, a factor which in part prompted the research reported here.…”

“…Nursing expertise has been studied in Australia and elsewhere in areas such as community nursing (McMurray, 1992); orthopaedic nursing (Greenwood & King, 1995); midwifery (Cioffi & Markham, 1997); general nursing (Conway, 1998); emergency nursing (Edwards, 1998) and critical care nursing (Benner, 1984; Benner et al. , 1992; Fisher & Fonteyn, 1994; Hanneman, 1996; Aitken, 2000).…”

The nursing expert in clinical practice

“…It is also characterised by high levels of clinical knowledge, assertive clinical leadership and patient focused involvement (Edwards, 1998) as well as professional artistry to ensure adept integration of such skills (RCN, 2005).…”