A Study of In-Service Education Programs in Continental United States Air Force Hospitals as They Relate to the Air Force Nurse

Respini, Ellen M.

Graduate Thesis Or Dissertation

A Study of In-Service Education Programs in Continental United States Air Force Hospitals as They Relate to the Air Force Nurse Public Deposited

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Citeable URL: https://scholar.colorado.edu/concern/graduate_thesis_or_dissertations/z316q191c

Abstract

The objectives of this study were (1) to investigate quantity and quality of in-service education programs for Air Force nurses; (2) to analyze whether major areas of similarity and of difference existed in current programs; and (3) to offer recommendations based on this study, and within the context of Air Force regulations, for increased implementation of the program. A questionnaire was devised by which to investigate current programs. The questionnaire consisted of multiple choice and dichotomous questions, and contained one free response question. The study indicated that 92% of all U.S. Air Force hospitals within the continental United States had operational in-service education programs. Of the 78 respondents to the questionnaire, 42 were found to have highly successful programs, and 24 were found to have programs of moderate success. The remainder either had limited programs, or no program at the time of the study. Among the latter 12 respondents, however, several comments were received indicating plans for inauguration of programs as of January, 1960. It was found that the size of the hospital had no relation to success of the in-service education program; hospitals of all size groups were among the highly successful category. However, size did appear to influence lack of success in the program. The greatest proportion of hospitals reporting minimal programs, or no programs, were among the group of 50 beds or less. Among the successful programs, content included outside lecturers, field trips, and attendance at seminars and workshops. The study clearly indicated, however, that opportunities available through local colleges or universities were not being utilized for the in-service education program. The keynote of the successful programs was participation. The climate of participation was achieved in most instances, through a plan of rotation of personnel as committee members of the In-Service Education Committee.

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