International Journal of Nursing

Rapid Competency Augmentation in a Critical Care Unit during a Global Health Crisis
Jose Arnold Tariga, PhD, MSN, MN, RN, CPHQ, CNE

Abstract
Background: COVID-19 had a huge effect on nurse-to-patient ratios around the world, prompting hospitals to employ inexperienced nurses with no experience or advanced training. Aims: To ensure clinical competence, the author developed the Long Term Critical Care Transition Modules and conducted this study to assess its effectiveness. Methods: Three learning modules were developed, and data was collected using a questionnaire and competency checklist created by the researcher. To see whether there was a substantial change in skills and competence levels before and after being exposed to the modules, researchers used descriptive statistics and a paired t-test. Findings: Demographic profiles indicated that the majority of the nurses are in their early career. A significant improvement in competency levels among nurses post-module attendance was also noted (p<0.05).Conclusion: Transition modules can be an efficient way to up skill nurses with little to no previous experience in long-term critical care in a limited amount of time.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/ijn.v8n1a6