Tilnærminger anvendt i nettverksgrupper for kompetanseutvikling i det palliative fagfeltet

Abstract

Background of the study: Palliative nursing requires specialized knowledge and skills to enable nurses facing complicated conditions and symptoms. Norwegian white papers recommend health services to take place close to the home, which necessitates specialized nursing competence at all levels of nursing care. In Norway, The Center for Competence in Palliative Care coordinates the regional palliative care service, while community employees coordinate the patient-oriented palliative care. Aim: Palliative Care Network of nurses with special competence in palliative care provides the nurses’ training. This study describes how nurses develop competence through participation in this Network. Method: By means of two focus groups ten self-selected nurses have been interviewed. Result: The Network is referred as arena for socialization and learning, where nurses share their experience as a source of knowledge. Case discussion from the clinical field is preferred learning approach. Integration of theory and research in practice is highlighted however it seems challenging to implement research into practice-discussions. Therefore, such focus is to be contained in lectures, web presentations, and daily communication between participants within the Network. Conclusion: Case-based learning has been emphasized as an important approach for nursing competence development. The Network strengthens the nurses’ competence and enhances their professional confidence.