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Using Learning Outcome Measures to assess Doctoral Nursing Education
Published on: June 21, 2010
Postdiploma nursing education: after the year 2000.
1School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing
|February 28, 2002
Summary
Clinical nurses and managers desire postdiploma university education for specialized skills in gerontology and palliative care. They prefer clinically focused programs over generic degrees to enhance patient care.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Education
- Healthcare Workforce Development
- Continuing Professional Development
Background:
- Healthcare demands are increasing due to demographic shifts, financial constraints, and chronic illness.
- Traditional nursing education primarily offers diploma-level preparation for bedside roles.
- There is a gap between current nursing education and the specialized skills required in modern healthcare.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the need for postdiploma nursing education among clinical nurses and nurse managers.
- To identify preferred modes and areas of further nursing education.
- To explore strategies for enhancing nurses' access to advanced education.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted with 714 clinical nurses and 56 nurse managers.
- Participants provided assessments regarding the necessity and format of postdiploma education.
- Data were analyzed to identify preferences and agreement on educational needs.
Main Results:
- A strong preference exists for clinically focused university education over noncredit courses or generic degrees.
- Nurses and managers agree on the need for advanced preparation in gerontology and palliative care.
- Essential cross-clinical skills identified include decision-making, communication, and leadership.
Conclusions:
- Postdiploma university education is highly valued by nurses and managers for skill enhancement.
- Curricula should prioritize specialized areas like gerontology and palliative care, alongside core competencies.
- Innovative educational strategies, including distance learning, are needed to support nurses' professional development.
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