Objective: To discuss the development and implementation of a training program of a neurology-naïve Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) into a small academic movement practice in the US from both the training physician and nurse practitioner’s perspective, highlighting the differences between the training of an APRN versus an MD movement disorders fellow.

Background: There is a growing shortage of neurologists in the US that cannot keep up with an aging population. An APRN was hired to help the only movement disorders specialist in an academic practice in the Midwest improve access to care. However, the APRN had no experience or training in neurology or movement disorders.  The training program in place at the institution was more appropriate for primary care and needed modifications to be suitable for the development of a competent movement disorders APRN with the potential to eventually practice independently.

Method: This case study involves a single dyad of MD and APRN. By completion of a survey, the MD and APRN explored their experiences integrating the APRN into a movement disorders practice after 18 months of training.  Each person was initially blinded to the other’s answers. After survey completion, answers were shared and, through open discussion, the dyad determined the best practices for the future training of neurology APRN’s at that institution.

Results: Training an APRN is most effective when the training MD appreciates the differences in the prerequisite skills of APRNs versus MD’s.  For example, MD movement fellows have several thousand more hours of training than newly graduated APRNs, who may not have any neurology training at all.  Pertinent knowledge gaps include neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, pharmacology, and interpretation of the neurological exam. Addressing those knowledge gaps in a formalized manner using available online and in-person resources creates a favorable training experience.

Conclusion: Through the integration of online learning courses, supervised on-the-job training, and an adaptive approach to education, an APRN can learn movement disorders clinical care and enhance a successful movement disorders practice. There is a need for movement disorders education targeted specifically to APRNs.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/training-an-aprn-in-movement-disorders-lessons-learned/