Testing for Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN): Reflections From Using QSEN as a Framework for RN...

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Quality
• Patient Safety

Background:

• The integration of Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN) competencies into nursing professional development is a developing area.
• Effective implementation is crucial for enhancing healthcare quality and patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of incorporating QSEN competencies into nursing orientation on knowledge gain.
• To identify differences in knowledge acquisition among nurses with varying educational backgrounds (ADN vs. BSN).

Main Methods:

• QSEN content was integrated into the existing nursing orientation program.
• Knowledge gain was measured for three specific QSEN competencies.
• Data were analyzed to compare knowledge levels between Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) prepared nurses.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant increase in patient safety knowledge was observed post-orientation.
• Differences in knowledge levels were identified between ADN and BSN nurses concerning evidence-based practice and quality improvement competencies.
• The study indicated that current interventions may not be sufficient to fully develop QSEN competencies in practicing nurses.

Conclusions:

• Incorporating QSEN competencies into nursing orientation can enhance patient safety knowledge.
• Further development of targeted interventions is necessary to strengthen QSEN competencies among all practicing nurses, particularly addressing identified gaps between ADN and BSN nurses.
• Continuous evaluation and refinement of professional development programs are essential for advancing healthcare quality and safety.