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Physical Assessment Techniques in Nursing Education: A Replicated Study
The Journal of Nursing Education
|May 4, 2017
Summary
Nursing education continues to teach physical assessment skills, but educators must focus on essential techniques for optimal patient outcomes. Competency in core skills remains crucial for clinical practice.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Education
- Clinical Skills
- Healthcare Practice
Background:
- A decade ago, U.S. nurses used only 30 physical assessment techniques.
- Nursing education faces pressure to prioritize essential knowledge and skills.
- This study investigates changes in nursing education regarding physical assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine physical assessment skills taught in baccalaureate nursing programs.
- To compare current skills with those from previous studies.
- To assess the alignment between nursing education and clinical practice needs.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional, descriptive study design.
- Focus on one baccalaureate nursing program in the midwestern U.S.
- Analysis of physical assessment skills taught and used by nursing students.
Main Results:
- Identified similarities and differences in physical assessment skills compared to prior research.
- Provided insights into how well nursing education reflects clinical practice requirements.
- Highlighted the ongoing need for curriculum evaluation.
Conclusions:
- Nurse educators must prioritize essential skills in prelicensure programs.
- Focusing on core competencies is vital for optimal patient outcomes.
- Continuous evaluation of nursing curricula is necessary to ensure relevance and effectiveness.