Current status of individual support for public health nurses who participated in a reflection-based program to improve individual support ability

Abstract

　The purpose of this study was to clarify the current status of individual support for public health nurses who participated in a reflection-based program to improve individual support ability for novices. The study also examined the need for follow-up for individual support, including the need for fulfilling the role as preceptors.

　There were six study participants. Individual interviews were conducted to explore the reasons for self-evaluation using a reflective individual support ability evaluation index and the impact of participating in the program was evaluated. Data were qualitatively and inductively analyzed.

　 All participants could perform some evaluation indices, such as “expression and objective view of feelings and thoughts that arise in support.” Some evaluation indices, such as “description and explanation about the situation and support of the object person,” were performed by all participants, but some found doing these by themselves difficult. Some evaluation indices such as “recognition of the influence of one's emotions and beliefs” could not be accomplished by some participants.

　The results of the study indicate that it is necessary to provide daily on-the-job training for description and evaluation of reflection skills, and that off- the-job training is necessary for critical analysis.