[Portrait of the formation in vaccination training offered to Quebec nurses in the workplace]

Nurses carry out essential functions in the area of immunization in Québec and their role has broadened considerably since January 2003, following legislative modifications. However, the training received may not always allow nurses to fill this role satisfactorily. This study seeks to document the training in immunization offered to Québec nurses in the workplace.

A questionnaire was mailed to the directors or heads of nursing care (DSI/RSI) in 477 health care establishments in Québec in March 2003.

Health care establishments in Québec offer more training to nurses on the job (68%) than at the moment of hiring (43%). These percentages vary widely according to the type of establishment. More than 90% of the local community service centres (CLSC) that responded offer training to their nurses. The indications/contraindications of immunization products and emergencies related to vaccination represent the themes most frequently dealt with. Only 38% of respondents affirm that the nurses in their institution are "very favourable" to vaccination.

Almost all Québec CLSCs, which is where most immunization activities are carried out, offer training in vaccination to their nurses. On the other hand, few hospital centres (CH) and long-term care establishments (CHSLD) do so. Further documentation should be carried out on the impact of less than optimal training on the promotion of immunization programs by nurses.