Implementation of Standardized Nursing Language at a University

Abstract

PURPOSETo evaluate the implementation of the standardized nursing languages (SNL) of NANDA, NIC, and NOC at a midwestern baccalaureate nursing program over four years.METHODSNursing faculty developed 6 items to rate responses using a Likert‐type scale (1 = low to 5 = high.) Two open‐ended questions were included. Faculty and student evaluations shared 4 common items, while 2 items were slightly different. Respondents' evaluations (juniors, seniors, and faculty) over 4 years were compared. Each year approximately 10 faculty and 60 students responded to the survey.FINDINGSRespondents rated the use of SNLs as follows: helpful as a resource (mean ≥4.0), pertinent to the course (mean ≥3.8), pertinent to clinical (mean ≥4.0), and compatible with Watson's Caring Theory (mean ≥4.0). Over 4 years, faculty members' ratings have increased while students' ratings have slightly decreased. Comments revealed the need for additional orientation and more in‐depth discussion about relating SNLs to individualized patient care.CONCLUSIONSContinued research at this university, at other schools of nursing, and in practice settings is needed to evaluate student and faculty satisfaction after introducing standardized nursing languages in planning and documenting patient care.