The nurse endoscopist: reality or fiction?

In this article, the author describes a study conducted to determine whether advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) should perform endoscopic procedures, such as colonoscopy and esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Questionnaires were mailed to APRNs belonging to the Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates. Questionnaire items pertained to demographics, current activities, interest in performing GI endoscopic procedures, and barriers to performing GI endoscopic procedures. Over 70% of respondents approved of nurses performing diagnostic endoscopic procedures, yet 80.6% did not think that nurses should perform therapeutic endoscopic procedures. Training opportunities were limited. The barriers to performing endoscopic procedures included liability, third-party reimbursement, lack of physician support, lack of policies, and lack of education. APRNs should develop policies and establish acceptable training guidelines and competency rates in performing GI endoscopic procedures.