Preparation of Nurses for Novice Entry to Perioperative Practice: Evaluation of a Short Education Program

It is concluded that PIP is effective in preparing nurses for novice-entry level to perioperative nursing practice in terms of their knowledge level, however, it cannot be assumed that this translates into competent clinical practice.

Abstract

There is a worldwide shortage of nurses and this is predicted to worsen as more nurses retire from the profession. Within perioperative nursing in Australia there are nurse shortages in virtually every state and territory. Furthermore, since undergraduate nursing education moved into universities, there is no requirement for theatre experience and this has impacted on the recruitment of new graduates to the area. The reduction of new recruits to perioperative nursing, as well as an increased workload, has affected stress and burn-out in more experienced nurses, resulting in further losses to the profession. In 2007, as part of a South East Queensland strategy to improve recruitment of nurses to the perioperative area, a short, five-day education program was developed and implemented: the Perioperative Introductory Program (PIP). The main objective of the program is to prepare 'workready' nurses for novice perioperative practice. This paper presents the results from an evaluation study, where the main aim was to investigate participants' knowledge levels before and after the PIP. Objective assessment of knowledge was also compared to participants' self-assessment of their knowledge, competence and confidence levels. The results demonstrate significant improvements in knowledge and self-perceived competence and confidence. Furthermore, knowledge areas of strength and weakness, and knowledge areas where greatest learning was achieved were identified. It is concluded that PIP is effective in preparing nurses for novice-entry level to perioperative nursing practice in terms of their knowledge level. However, without further investigation, it cannot be assumed that this translates into competent clinical practice.