Assessing Needs for Practical Training in Intensive Care Unit to Enhance Nursing Education: A Focus Group Interview

Abstract

Purpose : The demand for skilled critical care nurses and the significant impact of the practice-readiness gap underscore the need for educational programs bridging nursing education and clinical practice. This would ensure safe, high-quality patient care and a stable workforce. This study aimed to explore the educational needs of critical care nurses to develop an essential nursing education program for nursing students, addressing the practice-readiness gap they may encounter as new nurses.Methods : The study espoused a qualitative approach by utilizing focus group interviews conducted in South Korea in April and May 2022. A total of 11 nurses participated in the study. Data were collected from three focus groups, each consisting of three to four nurses from intensive care units. Focus group interviews were conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire. Content analysis was performed on the interview data using thematic analysis. Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the institutional review board.Results : Nursing education programs in intensive care units should prioritize fundamental nursing competencies such as basic nursing and physical examinations. Participants’ critical care nursing education needs were categorized into four main themes: holistic nursing competency, advancement of practical education, skilled communication, and systematic critical care nursing education.Conclusion : The study’s findings provide valuable insights and guidelines for developing critical and intensive care nursing education programs tailored for nursing students.