Fidelity of implementing a competency-based nursing programme during the COVID-19 pandemic: A case study

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Public Health
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted educational delivery globally.
• Competency-based nursing education (CBNE) requires specific implementation fidelity for effectiveness.
• Low-resource settings face unique challenges in maintaining educational standards during crises.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the fidelity of implementing a CBNE program during the COVID-19 pandemic in a low-resource setting.
• To identify challenges and successes in maintaining CBNE implementation during an educational disruption.
• To propose strategies for enhancing CBNE fidelity in future crises.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive case study design using mixed methods.
• Data collected via surveys, focus groups, and document analysis from educators, students, and administrators.
• Analysis involved descriptive statistics and deductive content analysis based on the fidelity of implementation framework.

Main Results:

• Fidelity of the CBNE program implementation was generally maintained according to the framework.
• Sequenced progression and programmatic assessments were misaligned with CBNE principles during the pandemic.
• The study identified specific areas requiring adjustment for effective CBNE delivery under duress.

Conclusions:

• While CBNE implementation showed satisfactory fidelity, specific components require adaptation during educational disruptions.
• The findings highlight the need for flexible yet structured approaches to maintain educational quality.
• Proposed strategies aim to bolster CBNE resilience and effectiveness amidst unforeseen challenges.