Elaine L. Smith

Nursing Grand Rounds as a Medium for the Continuing Education of Nurses

Grand rounds are an educational technique used by the medical profession, yet only sporadically used in nursing. When grand round are employed, knowledge can be disseminated on a consistent basis. No literature was found detailing the effectiveness and value of such programs. This article describes a small pilot study that assessed the effect on knowledge and the perceived value of a nursing grand rounds (NGR) format. To measure these two concepts, those who attended the inaugural NGR presentation were given a posttest and an assessment survey 1 year after the presentation. The posttest focused on key concepts presented, and the survey rated perceived value and knowledge on a scale from 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree). Results demonstrated positive knowledge acquisition and a high perceived value. This assessment review lends support to the use of institutional NGR as a means of continuing education and professional advancement.

Educational opportunities for experienced staff: do they make a difference?

This study evaluates the impact of educational programs, such as Advanced Burn Life Support (ABLS), on the knowledge base of experienced burn nurses. A convenience sample of six clinical experts within a 21-bed southeastern burn center who had never taken ABLS participated. The quantitative findings display a high level of value and an increase in knowledge base. The results of this study suggest that nurses with high levels of experience will have an increase in knowledge and express value in continuing education curricula. Consequently, this study supports the necessity of educational programs for nurses with significant specialized experience.

Professional Development Implications of Ebola Virus Disease Education: Part II

This article is the second in a two-part series that explores how one large, integrated health care system swiftly responded to the emerging threat of Ebola virus disease. In this second article, the educational and training activities that were developed are described.

Creating a successful certification examination review program: the nursing process approach.

The nursing professional development specialist has an increasing expectation to design and implement learning activities for professional nurses. These activities are critical in developing excellence in nursing practice. The purpose of this article is to demonstrate a step-by-step approach to the development of a continuing education program, using the nursing process as an organizing framework. This framework can be applied to the development of other continuing education programs as well.

Making the magnet commitment.

With a nursing shortage upon us, hospitals are seeking American Nurses Credentialing Centers Magnet designation as a way to recruit and retain staff. This article outlines the steps involved in achieving this prestigious award. Emphasis is placed on the role nursing staff development plays in fulfilling Magnet standards and participating in the application process.

Fostering Outcomes Through Education: A Systems Approach to Collaboration and Creativity

Across the country, integrated health care systems continue to emerge and expand. Large multifacility organizations can present both challenges and opportunities for nursing professional development and continuing education activities. This article will explore how one large multifacility system is addressing the varied learning needs of nursing staff across the enterprise.