International Curriculum for Nurses Working with Respiratory Patients - Why do we Need it? A Portuguese Perspective

Abstract

<b>Introduction:</b> We are now witnessing the growing prevalence of respiratory diseases (RDs). In Portugal, RDs are among the leading causes of hospitalization, morbidity and mortality. However, the greater impact is on the patient and family. In Portugal (PT), the master in Rehabilitation nursing underpins the development of specialized nursing skills to support respiratory patients to enhance self-care and self-management behaviours. Furthermore, rehabilitation nurses develop specialized skills in pulmonary rehabilitation, ventilation and airway clearance, supporting patients’ signs and symptoms management. <b>Aim:</b> Support the development of the International curriculum and influence nursing health policy worldwide. <b>Method:</b> In 2020, based on the initiative of ERS Nurse Chair, an International group of nurses and respiratory technologists/scientists from 30 countries started the development of an international curriculum. Firstly, a global survey on the need for a curriculum was performed, followed by a scoping review under the thematic. The next step will be a Delphi survey to establish the items for the curriculum. <b>Results:</b> In PT, 11 nurses volunteered to participate, as well as representatives of the Portuguese Order of Nurses and the Portuguese Association of Rehabilitation Nurses. <b>Conclusion:</b> An international curriculum for nurses working with respiratory patients will underpin the definition and harmonization of educational standards towards recognising of nurses’ certification worldwide. Defining an international curriculum is one of the main strategies to enhance the health quality, safety, and outcomes of respiratory patients.