Effect of small-group teaching on nurses’ competency level regarding patients undergoing cholecystectomy

Abstract

Background Competence is a fundamental component of nursing care and plays an important role in the quality of services provided by nurses. Therefore, the aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of small-group teaching on nurses’ competency level regarding patients undergoing cholecystectomy at Zagazig University Hospitals. Participants and methods A quasi-experimental research design was used to achieve the aim of the study. The study was conducted in Internal and General Surgery Department in New Surgery Hospital at Zagazig University Hospitals. A convenience sample of 30 nurses working in Internal and General Surgery Departments in New Surgery Hospital was included. Two tools of data collection were used: first, a self-administered structured questionnaire (pretest/post-test); and second, observational checklist. Results There was a statistically significant improvement of nurses’ knowledge after implementation of small-group teaching, with mean±SD of 22.83±0.59, than before, with a statistically significant difference (P=0.00). Moreover, there was a statistically significant improvement of nurses’ competency level after implementation of small-group teaching, with mean±SD of 241.86±3.49, than before, with a statistically significant difference (P=0.00). Moreover, there was a positive correlation between total nurses’ level of knowledge and their level of competency. Conclusion It can be concluded that small-group teaching for nurses had a positive effect on improvement of nurses’ knowledge, which reflected then on improvement of their competency level. Recommendation Continuous in-service training programs are recommended to improve and maintain nurses’ competency level regarding patients undergoing cholecystectomy.