Interviews with Community Healthcare Registered Nurses in Norway: Examination Practices and Clinical Evaluation Processes

Abstract

Aim: This study describes the examination practices and clinical evaluation processes that Registered Nurses in Norway perform in the community healthcare sector. Design: A qualitative exploratory design. Methods: Twenty interviews were conducted with Registered Nurses employed in the community healthcare sector in Norway. The data were analysed using a thematic analysis. Results: We found four major themes: (1) evaluations are embedded in nurses’ daily work, (2) significance of a Registered Nurse's clinical competency, (3) different tasks require various roles and (4) access to resources and equipment. Registered Nurses possess several skills in a range of different examination techniques and clinical evaluation processes in the community healthcare sector. They perform complex assessments in their daily work and must rely on other healthcare professionals, facilities and equipment to provide high-quality care. Ongoing education and training will enable Registered Nurses to complete accurate assessments in their community healthcare practice.