Elements that affect the relationship between registered nurses and healthcare assistants: A review of the literature

This paper reports on a literature review seeking to define what research states are the elements of the relationship between registered nurses and healthcare assistants (HCA). Registered nurses and HCAs have worked in partnership, caring for patients for over 100 years. Governmental policy regarding healthcare has attempted to shape their respective development, which will affect their relationship. However, there has been little research into this relationship area or how it affects patient care. The databases, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, BNI, and HMIC were searched, including a footnote and internet search using the keywords, healthcare assistants, registered nurse and relationship. These were expanded to cover local and international variations. Studies published between 1995 and 2009 were included if they were reported in English. The information was synthesised using guidelines developed by Polit and Beck (2008). Only six studies met the inclusion criteria. The following headings were used to group the findings, these are: interdependence and power, role understanding and patient care. Wide ranging outcomes were seen, showing healthcare assistants on a continuum from liabilities to helpers who gave good care (Orne et al., 1998). Many elements affect the relationship between registered nurses and healthcare assistants. None of the studies looked solely at the relationship, elements. The research showed that if HCAs were trained and prepared, then they had good relationships with registered nurses. 1 Email: [email protected]