Metaphors of Interdisciplinary Collaboration to Overcome the Theory-Practice Gap when Transitioning from RN to Advanced Practice Nurses

Abstract

A particularly pressing concern is how members of the nursing profession who have expanded their scope of practice from Registered Nurse to Advanced Practice roles of Nurse Practitioners (NP) and Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS) experience their transition into the workforce. Available evidence suggests that new Advanced Practice Nurses struggle with "imposter phenomenon" (feeling not qualified for the job) and report difficulty in overcoming the theory-practice gap. To illuminate strategies for easing the passage of the role transition via interdisciplinary collaboration and support, graduate students completing a course in Theoretical Foundations of Nursing created metaphors of ferrying and gardening. These metaphors depict solution-focused approaches that reduce the anxiety and loss of selfconfidence which accompany Phase One of the transition (initial process of acquiring the skills and knowledge needed for the advanced practice role) to ensure successful transitioning into Phase Two (period of adjusting to the new role that follows program evaluation). Keywords: Advanced nursing practice, role transition, interdisciplinary collaboration, metaphorical inquiry, transition theory.It is time to speak our truth, with passion, and as a collective. It is time to renew our commitment to care, and rise to a call to action … This is our time to go boldly forward with renewed vision, inspired by foundational nursing values and with absolute conviction of our place in the world [1].