![[ Visit Client Website ]](images/banner.gif)
Learning Objective 1: 1. The learner will be able to describe the process of using a pre, during and post self-assessment to evaluate the needs of the individual or group.
Learning Objective 2: 2. The learner will be able to interpret the results of the study and apply the research method used in this pilot study in their own environments.
Debra C. Wilson, MSN, RN, OCN
Background/significance of problem:
In the past, oncology nurses attended oncology training programs during their orientation prior to their direct patient care experiences. In the current healthcare settings, such training and orientation is not consistently provided as programs have been eliminated or shortened. In addition, oncology patients are often cared for in mixed unit settings. As a result, new oncology nurses feel as if they are not fully prepared to care for these patients which may result decreased quality of care.
Purpose of research study:
The purpose of the research study was to discover if nurses self-report that they are more prepared to competently care for oncology patients after participating in professional development activities.
Discussion:
Results demonstrated that nurses self-reported that they were more prepared to competently care for oncology patients at 3 months and 6 months as compared to the baseline. Further analysis would need to be conducted to determine if there are specific areas of deficiency that did not improve on the self-assessments at the 3 and 6 month periods so these areas could be addressed in future educational programs. While the majority of these nurses did participate in professional development activities between the baseline and the 3 month and/or 6 month follow-up self-assessments, one cannot make a direct link between higher levels of self-perceived competence and the professional development programs. Although these educational programs most likely enhanced their self-perceived competency levels, their additional months of oncology experience and the mentoring of their colleagues would impact their higher self-perceived competency level
Future Implications:
The self-perceived scores that demonstrate lower competency levels could be used for individual goal setting on annual reviews as well as development of unit orientation/education materials for new nurses.