Daring to be different : a qualitative study exploring the education needs of the nurse consultant

Franks, H; Howarth, ML

Abstract

Nurse consultants are recognised experts and are one of the most senior nursing ‘clinical’ grades. How these
roles have developed has varied but all require an armoury of expanded and extended skills. However, since
their introduction in the UK little has been written about how they should be effectively prepared for the role.
This study used a multi-method approach to establish a rich picture of the nurse consultant role (specialising
in safeguarding children) in relation to their existing skills and perceived education needs. The job
descriptions and specifications of a sample of consultant nurses (n=4) established role expectations and
content, whilst in-depth individual semi-structured interviews with the nurses and six key ‘stakeholders’
explored perspectives about the educational preparation and ongoing learning needs of those either in the
role or aspiring to be.
The findings suggest that whilst there are differences there is also some convergence in their developmental
needs. For example, that mentorship and academic and leadership support were integral to meeting their
learning needs, to optimise effectiveness and to enhance future role development. It is vital therefore that
those wishing to ‘grow’ consultant nurses implement a range of educational strategies to support the
continued professional and clinical development of current and future post holders.

Citation

Franks, H., & Howarth, M. (2011). Daring to be different : a qualitative study exploring the education needs of the nurse consultant. Nurse Education Today, 32(4), 406-411. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nedt.2011.05.021

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: May 31, 2011
• Online Publication Date: Jun 20, 2011
• Publication Date: Jun 20, 2011
• Deposit Date: Oct 10, 2011
• Journal: Nurse Education Today
• Print ISSN: 0260-6917
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 32
• Issue: 4
• Pages: 406-411
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nedt.2011.05.021
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.nedt.2011.05.021
• Related Public URLs: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/02606917/32/4