The Self-Directed Learning Ability of Junior Nurses in the Emergency Department: An Up-to-date Survey

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to evaluate the self-directed learning ability of junior emergency department (ED) nurses and provide the rationale for whether it is necessary to strengthen the training of junior ED nurses. Methods Using the convenience sampling method, a self-directed learning ability questionnaire survey was conducted among 358 junior ED nurses in several tertiary hospitals in Guangdong Province. Results The total score of self-learning ability of junior ED nurses was 119.85±16.82 (scores >135, 85-135, and <85 indicate excellent, intermediate, and poor self-learning ability, respectively). The retrospective analysis showed that gender, whether having participated in academic education, and the degree of motivation for promotion were major factors that affected the self-learning ability of junior ED nurses (P<0.05). Conclusions The self-learning ability of junior ED nurses in Guangdong is at an intermediate level. Nursing managers should pay more attention to the junior ED nurses with poor self-learning ability. In particular, adopting various training methods and establishing appropriate promotion mechanisms and economic incentive measures may help improve their self-learning ability and enable them to meet job requirements.