Correlation study between self-directed learning ability and core competency of operating room nurses

Abstract

Objective To investigate and analyze the current status of the self-learning ability and core competency of Operating Room nurses and to discuss the correlation between them in order to provide evidence for nursing managers. Methods A total of 508 operating room nurses (231 nurses from Nanjing, 277 nurses from Suzhou) from 18 hospitals in Jiangsu were selected as subjects according to convenience sampling. They were investigated with the rating scale of self-directed learning competence for nurses and competency inventory for registered nurse scale (CIRN). Results 490 effective questionnaires were withdrew. The total score of self-directed learning ability and core competency of 490 nurses were (125.97±18.90) and (161.79±31.66). The influencing factors of self-directed learning ability and core competency were attending training as backbone in nursing, assuming responsibility (clinical teacher, leader for responsibility nurse specialism). The self-directed learning ability was positively correlated with core competency (r=0.786, P<0.01). Conclusions The self-leaning ability and core competency of Operating Room nurses are in the moderate level and there is a positive correlation between them. Nursing managers should take appropriate and effective measures to improve self-directed learning ability and core competency of operating room nurses according to the influencing factors. Key words: Operating Room nurse; Core competency; Self-directed learning ability; Correlation