Abstract：
The nursing associate (NA) role was introduced in 2017 with a pilot programme of trainees, and in 2019 became regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). The role bridges the gap between the healthcare assistant (HCA) and registered nurse (RN), allowing RNs to focus on complex care. With over 9000 NAs on the NMC register and more in training, it is important to understand RN perceptions of the NA professional identity. The findings of a qualitative survey of RNs (n=23) identified the following themes: NMC standards and scope of practice; The \'cheap nurse\'; Skills development and progression; A supportive bridging role. Although valued, the role was perceived as a threat, ambiguous and inconsistently implemented. The implications are that the role ambiguity and lack of standardisation need addressing and a clear understanding of these must be articulated for the professions and public alike.
摘要：
2017年引入了护理助理（NA）角色，并实施了一项学员试点计划，并于2019年由护理和助产委员会（NMC）监管。这一角色弥合了医疗保健助理(HCA)和注册护士(RN)之间的差距，允许RNs专注于复杂的护理。NMC登记册上有超过9000个NAS，培训中也有更多，了解RN对NA专业身份的看法很重要。对RN进行定性调查的结果（n=23）确定了以下主题：NMC标准和实践范围；“廉价护士”；技能发展和进步；支持性桥梁作用。虽然很有价值，这个角色被认为是一种威胁，模棱两可，执行不一致。其含义是，需要解决角色模糊性和缺乏标准化问题，并且必须为专业人士和公众阐明对这些问题的清晰理解。
