Table 1 Comparison of generic and advanced practice nursing

Measure blood pressure.

Record result, recognise hypertension, advise general practitioner of result.

Record result, recognise hypertension, obtain patient and family history, discuss treatment options, organise a referral to a general practitioner, discuss the case with the general practitioner in detail, accept responsibility for case management including patient education and further monitoring.

Assess mental status.

Record result, recognise increased agitation, advise general practitioner of situation.

Record result, recognise increased agitation, initiate emergency response if required, use de-escalation techniques developed through formal skills training, organise a referral to a general practitioner, discuss the case with the general practitioner in detail, accept responsibility for ongoing case management including counselling and further monitoring.