References
Distinctive features of district nursing in contrast to nursing in other settings: a discussion
Abstract
Effective retention strategies are essential for the sustainability of district nursing services. To develop tailored retention strategies, the authors of this article examine what makes district nursing different compared to hospital and other care settings. Based on literature reviews and discussion groups, the authors identify five key characteristics of district nursing. This article invites expert district nurses to review these characteristics and provide feedback. By clearly identifying the distinctiveness of district nursing, the authors aim to strengthen retention strategies and explore other potential benefits for services.
The development of the district nursing workforce has become a priority for policymakers seeking to address evolving health needs and changing population demographics (While, 2024). As with any nursing workforce, a focus on recruitment, development and retention is necessary (World Health Organization, 2016; NHS England, 2023). Nurse retention remains a critical concern across the NHS in all four countries that make up the UK. The increasing shortage of nurses, coupled with high turnover rates, negatively impacts the quality of patient care and the experiences of other staff members (NHS Employers, 2023). In 2023, 76% of nurse team leaders in district nursing services reported unfilled vacancies or frozen posts within their teams (Bushe et al, 2024).
As a result, nurse retention, including that of nursing associates, has become central to the sustainability of district nursing services. This article presents preliminary work as part of a study funded by the General Nursing Council Trust, which investigated effective retention strategies for district nursing services. The study included a scoping review, surveys and interviews (publications are currently in progress). When applying for research funding, the authors argued that district nursing has distinctive features that set it apart from other settings. Reports from district nurses (DNs) during the pandemic, for example, were notably different from those of hospital nurses (Green et al, 2020). Effective retention strategies for nurses in hospitals or other settings may not apply directly to district nursing, as the role's unique characteristics must be considered. The aim of this article is to validate these ideas with a broader group of expert nurses in district nursing services and refine them where necessary.
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