Exploring competencies of military nurses in general hospitals in China: a qualitative content analysis

Abstract

Background Military nurses should possess the competency to provide quality care in both clinical and military nursing contexts. This study aimed to identify the competencies of military nurses in general hospitals. Methods A qualitative study was carried out using a qualitative content analysis. We purposefully sampled and interviewed 21 nurses in general hospitals in China. Results The data analysis revealed 40 competencies, which were categorised into four main categories according to the Onion Model. These categories were motive (mission commitment), traits (perseverance, flexibility, etc.), self-identity of dual roles (obedience, empathy, etc.), as well as knowledge, skills and abilities (clinical and military nursing knowledge and skills, basic nursing ability, professional development ability, leadership and management ability). Conclusions Existing knowledge of competencies of military nurses in general hospitals is limited. A detailed exploration of this topic can provide guidance for recruitment, competency assessment, and competency building.

Development and evaluation of competency-based curriculum for continuing professional development among military nurses: a mixed methods study

“…In this study, a competency-based curriculum for CPD among military nurses of primary, intermediate, and senior titles was developed through a modified Delphi study based on the competency model of military nurses in general hospitals developed by our research team [ 24 ]. Meanwhile, the CPD programme among military nurses with primary and intermediate titles was redesigned, and the effectiveness of its implementation was evaluated from the trainees’ perspective.…”

“…First, the methodology of the Delphi study has its own shortcomings, such as the difficulty in generalising the results to a wider population [ 44 ]. To improve generalisability, an intensive literature review was conducted when developing the competency model and competency-based curriculum [ 24 , 34 ]. Second, a competency-based curriculum was implemented as a pilot study among nurses of primary and intermediate titles.…”

“…Based on the competency model of military nurses in general hospitals developed by our research team [ 24 ], Pubmed, Embase, CNKI, and Wanfang were searched to collect literature including corresponding training courses of each competency in the competency model. This literature review was conducted to build an item pool of competency-based curricula for the continuing professional education of military nurses.…”

“…Military nurses are responsible for providing healthcare in hospitals during peacetime and in relief operations during natural disasters or epidemics [ 22 ]; thus, their competencies are more complex. The onion model, which is an enriched competency model with different interrelated layers, is frequently used to provide a comprehensive perspective for exploring competencies and designing multilevel training [ 23 , 24 ]. Based on the onion model, a competency model for military nurses in general hospitals was developed by our research team, covering four main categories: motive, traits, self-identity of dual roles, as well as knowledge, skills, and abilities [ 24 ].…”

“…The onion model, which is an enriched competency model with different interrelated layers, is frequently used to provide a comprehensive perspective for exploring competencies and designing multilevel training [ 23 , 24 ]. Based on the onion model, a competency model for military nurses in general hospitals was developed by our research team, covering four main categories: motive, traits, self-identity of dual roles, as well as knowledge, skills, and abilities [ 24 ]. Owing to the multiple responsibilities of military nurses, they are required to sustain competencies by participating in the CPD programme.…”