The enhancement of writing skills among post-RN students

Nurses need to communicate in oral and written formats, but the emphasis on concise charting and multiple-choice examinations hinders the development of scholarly writing skills. A questionnaire completed by 97 students identified the areas within writing and formatting that needed strengthening. Three strategies, useful to continuing education programs for nurses, were incorporated in a post-RN program to enhance the students' writing abilities: a writing skills workshop, an in-class writing exercise and a draft paper assignment. Student evaluations have supported these strategies as well as guidance by faculty in assisting students to improve their writing.