Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to identify registered nurses learning needs about physical assessment. Specifically, what are the perceived competency, frequency of skill use and the unmet training needs.
METHODS
The study was an exploratory survey study. The sample was 104 registered nurses. Data were collected through three instruments: The Perceived Competency in Physical Assessment Scale, the Frequency of Physical Assessment Scale, and the Training Needs of Physical Assessment Scale which incorporated 30 core physical assessment skills. Descriptive statistics, t-test, and Pearson's correlation coefficient were used to analyze the data.
RESULTS
Auscultation of heart and lung sounds and inspection of the spine were rated by the subjects as physical assessment skills they feel least competent and also were less frequently performed. The most competent area for physical assessment was neurological system. The respiratory and abdominal system was identified as two systems that more education would be needed. Nurses with less than one year of working experience reported needing more training. Nurses with more than five years of clinical work experience performed physical assessment more frequently than nurses with less than five year of work experience. The perceived competency was positively related to the frequency of physical assessment.
CONCLUSION
Continuing education is necessary to further train registered nurses regarding physical assessment skills and the program needs to be focused on the area which nurses are less competent for and have high training need.