Evaluation of Motivational Interviewing Training to Promote Client-centered Communication Competency for Nurses

Abstract

Purpose: Purpose of this study was to examine effects of Motivational Interviewing(MI) training for nurses. Methods: In this quasi-experimental study with before and after tests, evaluation of a 7-session workshop was done. Participants were 36 nurses enrolled in a graduate nursing program. They completed a questionnaire which included assessment of motivational interviewing skills as measured by Helpful Response Questionnaire (HRQ) and confidence (5 items) in using MI. Two coders independently and blinded rated the before and after HRQ self-reported responses. Data were analyzed using paired t-test, descriptive analysis. Results: The results showed increasing use of open-ended questions (score range of 0.94~2.67, p<.001), reflection (3.17~5.83, p<.001), and decreasing use of closed-ended questions (3.31~1.10, p<.001) and road blocks (4.79~2.63, p<.001), but did not show significant changes in confidence to use MI. Preferred training options, in order of priority, were DVD, written exercise, real play, role play and lecture. Conclusion: Results of this study suggest the following: a) further research on developing and refining MI training programs as a leading strategy for actual increasing communication ability b) training trainers who can provide systematic feedback, supervision and evaluation c) developing standardized patients, clinical scenarios, training examples for clinical use in communication training.