Developing support for remote nursing education through workplace culture that values learning.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The present study presents the cultural challenges of introducing workplace learning associated with a nursing educational pathway into small rural hospitals. DESIGN AND INTERVENTION: Focus groups were conducted before and after an action research intervention to determine whether changes in understanding and values on learning had occurred. SETTING: Eight multipurpose services or small rural hospitals across rural New South Wales were involved in the intervention. SUBJECT: Nursing staff from eight rural health facilities participated voluntarily in the present study. OUTCOMES: Two outcomes were achieved: The development of mentoring, locally tailored to the needs and expectations of nursing participants; Values and understanding of learning were enhanced, with advanced levels of learning being identified and demonstrated by staff in the practice setting. CONCLUSION: Small rural hospitals can provide opportunities for advanced clinical learning. Forms of major mentoring are, however, critical to this process.