Using Goal Achievement as an Outcome Measure Following a Gero-Oncology Educational Program for Oncology Nurses: The GrOW Curriculum.

Abstract

This article describes the qualitative analysis of goal achievement by oncology nurses who attended a gero-oncology course. Four annual programs were completed and included 140 teams of oncology nurses from cancer settings across the United States. Self-determination theory and achievement goal theory provided the conceptual framework for understanding what motivates people to achieve goals and how goals can measure outcomes. SMART goals were used to measure outcomes and barriers. Goal achievement at 18 months showed that 70% of developed goals were in process or completed. The top three goal categories were professional education, structure/team building, and resource development. Top barriers included time constraints and staffing shortages. Encouraging oncology nurses to set specific goals while attending an educational program supports successful integration of new knowledge in their practice setting.