Ketel C, McClure N, Elkins T, Kapu A, Jones P. Advancing Nurse Practitioner proficiency and confidence: An evaluation of postgraduate training in rural and medically underserved communities.
J Am Assoc Nurse Pract 2024:01741002-990000000-00243. [PMID:
39137055 DOI:
10.1097/jxx.0000000000001036]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Nurse practitioners (NPs) are critical in delivering primary health care, especially in underserved and rural areas. Transitioning from academic training to practical application poses challenges, highlighting the need for structured post-licensure training (PLT).
PURPOSE
To address the knowledge gap regarding the impact of PLT programs on the clinical development, confidence, and care delivery of NPs using an innovative evaluative approach.
METHODOLOGY
Using a mixed-methods approach, this study engaged 19 NP fellows in quantitative and qualitative evaluations. Assessments of clinical skills and feedback were collected using the REDCap platform, focusing on mentorship and the practical application of skills.
RESULTS
Quantitative analysis showed improvements in several domains: patient-centered care (median score increase from 8 to 10, p = .005), knowledge of evidence-based practice (median score from 8 to 9, p = .028), and health systems (median score from 8 to 9, p = .014). Qualitative feedback underscored the benefits of the program's structured support and practical learning experiences while revealing the need for improvements in mentor preparedness.
CONCLUSIONS
The PLT program effectively advanced NP proficiency across various domains, particularly in patient-centered care and evidence-based practice. However, it also highlighted a crucial need for focused mentorship in developing leadership skills. The study's limited scope, dependence on self-reported measures, and specific statistical methods constrain the broader applicability of its findings. Future research should aim to validate these results across diverse settings and explore long-term outcomes.
IMPLICATIONS
This study provides new perspectives on NP workforce development, emphasizing the importance of structured mentorship and training, especially in medically underserved communities.
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