Clinical skills and nursing management in community health nursing – A qualitative study / Klinische Skills und Pflegemanagement im Rahmen von Community Health Nursing – Eine qualitative Studie

Background Community Health Nursing plays a crucial role in primary care across Europe, with each country adopting distinct approaches. In Austria, the increasing healthcare demands necessitate a reevaluation of Community Health Nurses (CHNs) competencies, skills, and roles. The current descriptions of these aspects for CHNs in Austria lack comprehensiveness, posing a challenge to effectively meet these demands. Objective: The aim of the present study is to explore the clinical skills, health management, and nursing management competencies among CHNs. Methods A qualitative study was conducted using problem-centered interviews with experts from various healthcare and nursing sectors (n=15). In the study, both narrative and structured interviewing techniques were employed to explore the required competencies, skills, and roles of CHNs. Results Findings underscore the importance of clinical and healthcare management skills for CHNs. Key competencies highlighted include navigating healthcare systems, gatekeeping, and case management, which are vital for effective primary care. Discussions also covered the potential expansion of CHN roles to include prescribing and performing clinical tasks. Conclusion CHNs can be pivotal in Austria’s healthcare system, facilitating access to care, managing patient pathways, and possibly assuming extended responsibilities. Enhanced training and clearer role definitions are crucial for meeting future healthcare challenges.