ABSTRACT
Background: The role of the pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP) has changed since its inception over 50 years ago. Pediatric nurse practitioner practice has evolved from providing outpatient primary care to children to providing complex care in the acute practice environment.
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to describe whether a difference existed in perceptions of organizational support (POS) of PNPs working in academic and nonacademic institutions and to describe the differences between PNP reporting structures and POS.
Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional design was used with a convenience sample (n = 86) of PNPs from the membership list of the Pediatric Nurse Credentialing Board (PNCB). A formal written request was sent to the PNCB to access their membership after which institutional review board approval was obtained from Case Western Reserve University. Participants received an online cover letter with links to the surveys to be completed. The PNPs were asked to complete a demographic/institution characteristic survey and Eisenberger Perceived Organizational Support Survey (POS).
Results: More than 63% of the PNPs participating in this national survey, practicing in both academic and nonacademic affiliated hospitals, had positive perceptions of organizational support. No differences were found between the academic and the nonacademic affiliations.
Implications for practice: Because PNPs are integral to the provision of care to children, providing opportunities for PNPs to continue to enhance their clinical skills and practice to the full extent of their scope of practice will only enhance their perceptions of organizational support. This dynamic creates a win-win for the PNP, the institution, the patients they care for, and the US health care system.