Pedagogical Competence of Mentors During the Pre-Graduation Traineeship of Future Nurses

Abstract

Modern European systems of education and training in the field of healthcare are designed to train competent professionals able to provide high quality healthcare to society, and also motivated to continue improving their education and training. The job of the registered nurse requires high professionalism and participation in continuous post-graduate training and courses so that nurses can maintain a high level of competence. The mentor of future nurses has to be able to identify the different levels of acquired knowledge, skills and competences in trainees. Aim: The aim of this study is to establish the pedagogical competence of mentors and their readiness and preparation to participate in the process of training and education during the pre-graduation traineeship of the future registered nurse. Methods and subjects: In order to research the opinion of mentors of their own pedagogical competence and skills to participate in the training process during pre-graduation traineeship of the trainee-nurses assigned to them, we surveyed mentors at the following university hospitals – ‘St. George’ University Hospital, Plovdiv, MPHAL AD Haskovo, ‘Dr. At. Dafovski’ MPHAT Kardzhali, University Hospital – Stara Zagora. Findings and discussion: The questionnaire included questions to the mentors for the purpose of establishing their opinion of the required pedagogical competences and the need of further training of the mentors, and, if such need is established, the topics that should be covered. Further training of mentors shall facilitate a better quality training process during pre-graduation traineeships. By mastering pedagogical and methodological skills for working with trainees, mentors will be able to participate more fully and productively in the practical training of the students. Conclusion: The high competence of the mentor comprises skills to communicate efficiently and demonstrate a kind and positive attitude to students and patients, and gain their confidence.