Revisiting the role and responsibilities of the tissue viability nurse

On defining 'experts', the seminal work of Benner (1984) proposed that the key characteristics of expert practice were having in-depth knowledge and higher levels of clinical judgement. With regard to Tissue Viability Nurse Specialists (TVNSs), Flanagan (1998a) highlighted the lack of consensus and consistency in the job titles used to describe expert practice, which perpetuated an inadequate understanding about what TVNSs do. Flanagan (1998a) also argued that an evaluation of the role was needed in order to determine the impact TVNSs have on patient outcomes. In a subsequent study, Flanagan (1998b) explored the factors influencing TVNSs in the UK and as part of the findings identified a disparity in role expectations. Based on his findings, Flanagan recommended that a clear position of authority should be established for TVNSs within an organisation that recognised by other staff to reduce the potential for role confusion.