An investigation into competence in TCM of BSN graduates from technological universities in Taiwan

The purpose of this study was to determine what competences in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) should be possessed by Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) graduates from technological universities in Taiwan. There were two phases in this study: focus groups and expert panel discussion. First, we held four focus groups, and interviewed 31 participants, including consumers, nursing staff and clinical nursing faculty. The interview tapes were transcribed verbatim, were proofed for accuracy and the content was analyzed. The results were then discussed by four academic experts in a panel discussion. Results indicated that the TCM competences of BSN graduates from technological universities should include the following: (1) to understand the basic concepts of TCM, including Yin/Yang, the Five Evolutive Phases, holistic view, the Five Viscera and Six Bowels, Meridians, etiology, and concepts of therapy and health preservation; (2) to recognize the cold and hot nature of food; (3) to illustrate the common dietetic care for immune enhancement in the four seasons, and the foods that help postnatal and postoperative physical regeneration; (4) to illustrate the properties, indications, and administration of common Chinese medicines, including: Ginseng, Lycium, Astragalus, Angelica sinensis (danggui), Chrysanthemum, Pinellia, Zizyphi fructus; (5) to describe the properties, indications, adverse effects, and administration of Siwutang and Shenghuatang; (6) to describe basic principles of administering both Chinese medicine and Western medicine; (7) to describe the indications and cautions of the following techniques: acupuncture, scraping therapy, and cupping; (8) to implement acupressure as a measure for promoting comfort under the following conditions: pain, vomiting, insomnia, palpitations; and (9) to demonstrate an open mind and cautious attitude to respect consumers using TCM. Results of the study can serve as a reference for nurse educators when training BSN graduates from technological universities in TCM competences.