Enhancing Knowledge of Registered Nurses Working in the Primary Care Setting

Abstract

To provide additional primary care education and improve the knowledge, skills, and attitudes for nurses working in the primary care setting, Methodist College developed a module-based Registered Nurse Community-Based Primary Care Certificate (RN CBPC) that provided foundational concepts related to epidemiology and health promotion and prevention. The certificate consisted of four modules and 30 continuing education credits. Upon completion of the modules, registered nurses served as preceptors for nursing students that were enrolled in the Community Based Primary Care Program. The preceptors were able to mentor and educate students about the primary care setting and the different opportunities for nurses. Students were able to care for underserved populations, learn about local community resources to refer patients, and understand the barriers that patients encounter when it comes to managing their chronic illnesses and health prevention.