When the CNS needs help establishing a women's support group: getting the most from the consultation process

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Psychosocial Support
• Women's Health

Background:

• Support groups effectively address psychosocial needs in women undergoing transitions.
• Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS) often have women's health expertise but lack experience in group facilitation and establishment.
• Developing formal support groups presents a significant challenge for CNSs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the role and benefits of external nurse consultants in establishing support groups for women.
• To guide CNSs in leveraging consultation for effective intervention development and implementation.
• To define the CNS's role in utilizing formal consultation processes.

Main Methods:

• The study discusses the process of engaging external nurse consultants.
• It outlines the collaborative approach between CNSs and consultants.
• Focuses on project management and group process facilitation.

Main Results:

• External nurse consultants provide essential expertise in group process and project management.
• Consultation facilitates proposal development, goal setting, action planning, and intervention evaluation.
• CNSs can effectively utilize consultation to overcome challenges in establishing support groups.

Conclusions:

• External nurse consultation is a valuable resource for CNSs developing women's support groups.
• This collaboration enhances the successful implementation of psychosocial interventions.
• CNSs acting as consumers of consultation are key to effective program development.