Development of a self-directed orientation manual for novice registered nurses in long-term care

• Main Author: Penton, Margaret Claire
• Format: Report
• Language: English
• Published: Memorial University of Newfoundland 2017
• Subjects: Newfoundland; Knowles
• Online Access: https://research.library.mun.ca/12942/; https://research.library.mun.ca/12942/1/Margaret_Claire_Penton_Final_Practicum_Report.pdf

Background: Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) has a rapidly aging demographic requiring increasingly advanced levels of nursing care in long-term care (LTC) facilities. There continues to be many challenges around the recruitment and retention of registered nurses (RNs) in this setting. This has been attributed to the broad range of roles and responsibilities, as well a lack of a clear definition of the RN role in the context of LTC, which can be challenging for the novice RN. Purpose: The purpose of this practicum project was to develop an orientation resource manual for novice RNs in LTC. Using self-directed learning, the manual can supplement the current clinical orientation for RNs at St. Luke’s Homes (SLHs) and improve resident health outcomes by increasing the RN’s knowledge and confidence around geriatric nursing care. Methods: Following the completion of the informal needs assessment at SLHs, it was determined that there was an educational need among the novice RN group for an improved comprehensive orientation program. An integrated literature review and consultations with several key stakeholders experienced in geriatrics were conducted. Results: Based on the findings from the literary review and consultations, and using theoretical foundations from Knowles’ Adult Learning Theory and Benner’s Novice to Expert Model, an orientation resource manual was developed. The manual was divided into seven chapters detailing geriatric and leadership content for the RN to access. Conclusion: For the purpose of this practicum project, while the resource has not been implemented or formally evaluated, “test your knowledge” questions and case-studies were included at the end of each chapter in the manual for the orientee to test their knowledge. Plans for a qualitative review to examine if the manual assisted with increasing the confidence levels and eased the transition of novice RNs at SLHs have been discussed.