Development and implementation of the specialized nurse practitioner role: use of the PEPPA framework to achieve success.

In 2003, amendments to the Nurses' Act in Quebec, Canada, allowed for an expanded nursing role. Specialized nurse practitioners were introduced to the health-care system in 2005. By merging medical knowledge with advanced practice nursing, the specialized nurse practitioner is gaining in popularity and acceptance with staff members and patients. To guide our team through the process, we used the PEPPA (participatory, evidence-based, patient-focused process for guiding the development, implementation, and evaluation of advanced practice nursing) framework. By using a framework specifically designed for the development, implementation, and evaluation of an advanced practice nursing role, we were better prepared for the path that lay ahead. Ultimately, the goal of the implementation of the specialized nurse practitioner role is to improve the quality of care to a specific population of patients, whether it is through individualized clinical follow-up, evidence-based practice, patient teaching, or promoting continuous education for the nurses.