The effectiveness of practical training workshops on knowledge and competency in critical care nursing among novice nurse, Mae sot hospital Tak province

Abstract

This research is a quasi-experimental study with a single group design aimed to compare the knowledge and competency scores of novice nurses before and after undergoing practical training workshops. The sample was 30 novice nurses. The study was conducted between May to July 2022. The research tools used include 1) a demographic questionnaire, 2) a knowledge and competency assessment questionnaire, and 3) a workshop teaching plan comprising fundamental knowledge content in seven topics, namely: a) ECG interpretation, b) ventilator setting, c) laboratory interpretation, d) fast-tracking diseases, e) nursing practice administering high-alert drug, f) early warning signs assessment, and g) cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Demographic data were analyzed using descriptive statistics: frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, median, and quartiles. Knowledge and competency scores were compared using a Paired t-test and Wilcoxon Signed rank.

The results indicated that the median knowledge scores significantly increased after participating in the workshops (p < 0.01), and the median competency scores also showed a statistically significant improvement after training (p < 0.01).

The research findings suggested that practical training workshops significantly improve the knowledge and competencies of novice nurses in caring for critically ill patients. Therefore, continuous training programs and incorporating long-term outcomes assessments are recommended to ensure sustained improvement in their skills and knowledge in critical care nursing.