Introduction
The provision of cancer care is becoming increasingly complex. It is imperative that the ongoing professional development needs of the oncology nursing workforce are met. In 2019, the Division of Cancer Services (DOCs) of the Princess Alexandra Hospital introduced three novel education interventions to meet the ongoing professional development needs of nursing staff. These initiatives include: (1) Professional Development at the Bedside (PDBs) initiative, (2) “Around the Kitchen Table” sessions, and (3) one-on-one mentoring from a clinical facilitator.
Aim
This paper outlines the structure, processes and outcomes of the introduction of PDBs in a tertiary cancer care setting.
Methods
This evaluation was conducted using the Donabedian Model. Low-risk ethics approval was obtained from the MSH Human Research Ethics Committee.
Results
Structure: Four nurse leaders including a Nurse Educator, a Clinical Nurse Consultant, a Nurse Practitioner and a Professor of Cancer Nursing are the key facilitators of the PDBs. Participants are nurses working in the inpatient and ambulatory areas within DOCS at the PAH.
Processes:
The coordination of each PDBs session (including identification of and gaining consent from appropriate patients and staff) is managed by the Nurse Educator. Each session is facilitated by two nurse leaders. During the session, the patient case is discussed according to the EdCan Framework and the Evidence-based Practice Model (clinical expertise, evidence and patient perspectives). A peer-reviewed article relevant to the patient case is often discussed. The patient is encouraged to be an active participant in the discussion.
Outcomes:
To date, 34 people undertook the PDBs, 24 completed the evaluation survey. All participants reported they would recommend this program to their colleagues, 90% reported they would change their clinical practice after the session. Free-text comments suggest high level of acceptability and satisfaction.
Conclusion
Early results suggest the acceptability and feasibility of PDBs.