Evaluation of a sister--charge nurse development course

In this study the problems of implementing a sister/charge nurse development course are identified, and the impact of the course on its members and their practice is examined. The sample consisted of 22 newly promoted sisters and the data were collected through individual interviews and questionnaires. It was found that many of the problems of implementation related to lack of resources and management support and a working climate which was not conducive to motivating them to take an interest in their professional development. As a result, the course members' initial apathy, disillusionment, low morale and general dissatisfaction with their job and the profession were not altered as a result of the course. There were also strong criticisms of the health authority as uncaring and an exploiter of staff goodwill. The implications of these findings are discussed and an alternative approach to continuing nurse education is suggested.