New study provides first definition of ‘adult social care nursing’

The term ‘social care’ is widely recognised, with around 40,000 registered nurses working in the adult social care sector in the UK, but there has never previously been a formal definition of what it means to be a social care nurse.

The new study, published in the International Journal of Nursing Studies Advances, identified that adult social care nursing is highly skilled, and should be valued as any other nursing role. Situated in the social care sector, adult social care nurses provide comprehensive care for people with complex nursing care needs, with an aim to facilitate their wellbeing.

Claire explains: “The lack of a clear definition of adult social care nursing has led to a fragmented understanding of nurses’ contributions and responsibilities. Nurses working in this sector may feel unseen, and that their skills are often not as valued as nurses in other healthcare settings.

“Social care nurses have a complex role, providing care in a multitude of different settings: these predominantly include care homes, and in the individual’s own home. They often work independently which requires a great deal of skill and expertise. 

“As we aim for more care being delivered in the community as part of the government’s 10 Year Health Plan, a clear understanding of adult social care nursing is crucial to strengthen integration. We need to challenge misconceptions about the role and emphasise the skills of adult social care nurses as equal partners in integrated health and social care.”