# Optimizing the Role of Registered Practical Nurses in the Operating Room: A Two-Phase Qualitative Descriptive Study

## TL;DR

This study explores how Registered Practical Nurses are used in operating rooms in Ontario to address nursing shortages and improve healthcare workforce planning.

## Contribution

The study provides insights into RPN role utilization and offers recommendations for enhancing their contributions in specialty nursing areas.

## Key findings

- RPN role utilization varies across different healthcare settings, affecting teamwork and work culture.
- Participants suggested opportunities for RPN leadership, policy support, and professional development.
- Re-evaluating RPN roles is essential to strengthen the nursing workforce amid ongoing human resource challenges.

## Abstract

Current nursing shortages are shifting approaches to health human resource planning. Broad changes are being implemented to support system planning, however, there is a need to engage in targeted strategies that address shortages in specialty nursing areas, such as the operating room.

The purpose of this study was to explore how Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) are currently utilized within operating room settings in Ontario, Canada.

A two-phase qualitative descriptive study design was conducted. Phase 1 consisted of an online survey and Phase 2 consisted of individual, semi-structured virtual interviews. Participants included nurses working in urban and community hospitals and/or private clinics. Descriptive statistics were used to report participant demographic data, and qualitative data were analyzed using inductive content analysis.

Sixty-five participants completed the survey, and 13 participants completed the semi-structured interviews. Participants identified differences in RPN role utilization within different healthcare settings, teamwork and work culture. Recommendations for RPN leadership opportunities, policy support, professional development, and the role of professional nursing organizations were also identified.

Given the complex nature of healthcare systems, new models of care, and evolving scopes of practice for healthcare providers, it is important to consider how RPNs can be further utilized to support patient care including specialty areas. Re-evaluating the roles and responsibilities of RPNs in healthcare is essential to strengthen the nursing workforce and prepare for ongoing human resource challenges.