What term is used to describe the process of expanding the focus of nursing practice into specialized areas?

The process of expanding the focus of nursing practice into specialized areas is correctly referred to as specialization. This term denotes the development of expertise in a specific area of nursing, allowing practitioners to provide a higher level of care in that domain. Specialization encompasses advanced training and education tailored to meet the unique needs involved in various healthcare settings, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or critical care.

Sub-specialization, while it may seem like a reasonable choice, actually refers to further refinement within an existing specialty. For example, a nurse specializing in cardiology could pursue sub-specialization in heart failure management. Generalization implies a broad approach without depth in any specific area, which does not capture the essence of expanding focused nursing practice. Lastly, standardization relates to establishing uniform practices and protocols rather than expanding nursing into specialized areas. Thus, specialization accurately reflects the concept of focusing nursing practice on specific fields to enhance patient care.