Using a survey to assess perioperative staff learning needs

The learning needs survey is an effective means of ranking staff learning needs. The learning needs survey should be used every year to reevaluate the staff's needs and to incorporate new content areas. Newly hired nurses should take the survey only after they have been employed six months. The survey allows the educator to differentiate the needs of the new versus experienced staff, and it involves the staff in planning for their personal needs. The use of a learning needs survey keeps the content focused on the learner as opposed to the instructor's interest or needs. The staff rated needs differently than the instructor. For example, the staff rated a review of pediatrics growth and development low (13) even though there is an increased number of outpatient pediatric cases at our facility. Staff members' comments also provide data for follow-up and more specific surveys. A learning needs survey is the first step in providing continuing education for the perioperative staff.