[The importance of the right to opt for specialized vocational qualifications in general nursing training from the perspectives of vocational trainers and trainees - Results of an accompanying mixed methods research study].

Introduction: The new Nursing Professions Act has been in force in Germany since 2020. Since then, general nursing training has been implemented. The reform of nursing training was the subject of controversial debate beforehand. Concerns were raised about inadequate preparation for different care sectors and settings. As a result, it is possible to choose specialized vocational qualifications in addition to the general nurse training. The article addresses how trainees are currently trained to meet the requirements in nursing and whether specialized vocational qualifications are chosen.

Methods: The article presents the results of an accompanying scientific research project (2021-2024). In this mixed methods study, a convergent parallel design was applied. The article is based on 80 guideline-based interviews with vocational trainers. Additionally, trainees were surveyed online in a longitudinal cohort study with three survey waves.

Results: Few of the institutions represented in the sample offer the specialized vocational qualifications. Where an offer exists, trainees make little use of it. Trainees feel that the nursing training does not prepare them equally well for the different care areas.

Discussion: The qualitative and quantitative findings demonstrate that general nursing training and the general vocational qualification are the preferred choice. Many vocational trainers consider general nursing training to be appropriate in order to meet the complex care requirements.

Conclusion: In particular, the practical part of the general nursing training must provide a more appropriate representation of care-oriented pediatric care settings. In order to cope with the fundamental transformation associated with generalistics, further training programs need to be established that adequately qualify future nurses.