Initiation, choice and satisfaction of nursing appointments in general practice: a cross-sectional survey of patients and nurses.

Aims and Objectives: To compare patients' and nurses' perceptions regarding the initiation of appointments, and to assess patients' satisfaction with appointment provision.
Background: Appointment provision is changing in primary care and no research has assessed the initiation of nursing appointments.
Design: Cross-sectional survey assessing patients' and nurses' perceptions of the same appointment.
Methods: A survey distributed to a convenience sample of patients attending nursing appointments for a two-week period.
Results: Patients are highly satisfied with appointment provision. There is little agreement between patients and nursing staff regarding the initiation of an appointment.
Conclusion: Patients are satisfied with appointment provision which can accommodate different perceptions regarding the initiation of an appointment.
Relevance to Clinical Practice: It is important to acknowledge patients' perceptions regarding appointment management as the views of nursing staff differ regarding the initiation of the appointment.