Learning Objective #1: Explore the development of problem solving for a better health nursing program in China

Learning Objective #2: Discuss the impact of problem solving for a better health nursing program in China

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Background: The 1.2 million Chinese nurses represent a formidable force for better health in China. Optimizing their effectiveness through training in the basics of the scientific method and the collection and analysis of data necessary for evidence-based nursing on a national scale is a vital objective. To help achieve this, the Peking Union Medical College School of Nursing and the Dreyfus Health Foundation (DHF) have worked together since 1996 developing a nursing-specific modification (PSBHN) of the Foundation's 35-country Problem Solving for Better Health (PSBH®) program. Presentation objective: To describe the progress of PSBHN to date in China, and to evaluate its effects on the enhancement of nursing education, the role of the nurse, and the strengthening of evidence-based nursing. Presentation content: The PSBHN program will be described. It includes a formal workshop in which each student and/or practicing nurse identifies a health care or delivery problem within the purview of their nursing work or life. Facilitators assist participants in defining the problems, identifying possible solutions, and creating realistic plans of action, including evaluation of the results. Participants are expected to implement these projects within their work or school activities, with progress follow-up occurring at 6-12 months. Thus far, the program has conducted 13 workshops involving 430 nursing participants in four provinces throughout China. Sixty-five percent of the projects have been completed, providing clear evidence of the capabilities of a broad range of nurses and nursing students to solve practical health problems with scientific rigor. Conclusion: PSBHN is an effective tool that can contribute to achieving practical health benefits, changing nursing attitudes and expectations, enhancing nursing education, and strengthening evidence-based nursing in China. Further improvement and expansion are merited.