The Learning Experiences of Participating in Training program among Nurse Practitioners

• Main Authors: Hui-Chun Han, 韓惠君
• Other Authors: Li-Ling Hsu
• Format: Others
• Language: zh-TW
• Published: 2013
• Online Access: http://ndltd.ncl.edu.tw/handle/30474948390038808727

碩士 === 國立臺北護理健康大學 === 醫護教育研究所 === 101 === This study attempts to explore the learning experiences of nurse practitioners (NP) enrolled in NP training programs with the intent of evaluating learning difficulties, emotions, development, and self-gain among these participants. The purpose of this study is to enhance the quality of education provided to nurse practitioners in training. In this qualitative study, semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with ten nurse practitioners to collect data on their learning experiences during training. Data analyzed via content analysis deduced seven themes from their learning experiences including： (1) improvements in professional and personal performance (2) enhancement of professional decision-making (3) building-up of self-confidence, (4) fulfillment of clinical service during internship, (5) balance of professional and personal roles, (6) evaluation of training effectiveness, and (7) professional roles, expectations, and actual performance. Through training programs, nurse practitioners can deepen professional knowledge, refine thinking ability, and build up self-confidence. Although their different roles and different interpretations of instructions in clinical situations resulted in differences in training outcome, most participants were able to remain highly motivated and learn by thinking critically throughout training. An inconsistency was detected between the set of competencies nurse practitioners were supposed to develop in training, and the set of competencies being tested in the final assessment. The government, higher education institutions, and the medical circle should work together to develop universal standards for NP training and assessments and properly supervise administration of NP training. In addition, NP training should be conducted through a learner-oriented approach by preceptors who truly understand expectations regarding the nurse practitioner role to bring about optimal results.