Difficulties and Necessary Support for Head Nurses Who Train Their Staff in 4 Hospitals of a Medical University in China

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify the actual conditions of difficulties for head nurses who train their staff nurses in China. The level of difficulties and necessary support were clarified. By using a self-devised questionnaire, data was collected for 202 head nurses from 4 hospitals affiliated to a Chinese medical college. According to the Gathering Method I applied, a selfregistering investigation was conducted.

Results: Among the difficulties faced by the nurse training, the categories were: ①Continuing Nursing Education, 66%; ②Education and Researching Abilities, 61% ; ③Impart Motivation, 46.5%. In this order, the ratio of difficulties was high. In the scoring rate (according to the mean value), the 3 items of highest rank were as follows. ①Enhancing the ability of nursing research (3.81±1.25); ②Ensuring teaching materials and instruments for nursing educational activities (3.75±1.31); and 3) Assuring a budget for nursing education (3.62±1.23). The 3 items of lowest rank were as follows. ①Setting themselves as an example for the nursing practices (1.21±0.65); ②Helping staff nurses to learn nursing techniques (1.35±0.67); and ③ Helping nurses to gain basic nursing knowledge ( 1.37±0.79).

In order to train staff nurses, the expectation of essential support was very high. One quarter (25.3%) of the head nurses hoped that they could obtain all of the support listed the above. The first 3 items among all essential supportive opportunities were listed sequentially. ① Increasing the opportunities for head nurses to study outside the hospital (4.79±0.58); ②Enhancing inhospital training of teaching skills (4.79±0.56); and ③Enhancing in-hospital training on nursing research methods (4.6±0.73). There was no correlation between difficulties and essential supports in spotting nurse talents.

The administrative method applied nowadays in the ward has not become well established yet. Therefore, it is very important to establish systematic education and management for Chinese head nurses on nurse training.