IMPACT OF EDUCATION IN NURSING PRACTICE AFTER POST RN DEGREE PROGRAM IN MAYO HOSPITAL LAHORE

Introduction: Due to latest health reforms, growing environment of competition and modification in job eligibility and promotion criteria many nurses working in undergraduate cadre have enrolled themselves in a post graduate RN program. Literature search is full of mixed opinions with respect to how this shifting trend has impacted the quality of care and clinical outcomes. Therefore this study was conducted with the aim to find the potential and nature of impact a post graduate RN program can make on the health system. Methods: A quantitative descriptive study was undertaken for the purposely selected 100 nurses having completed their Post RN program and working in Mayo Hospital Lahore with a nursing experience of more than 5 years at least in different capacities during January 2019 to March 2019. Data was analyzed by SPSS 21. Results: It was observed that the clinical orientation and practice of registered nurses was perceived to have improved to some extent as a result of postgraduate course. Conclusion: Though the positive impact on various aspects of personal and professional development there still exists a need to identify barriers in achieving career oriented goals and in the practical application of post graduate expertise at the workplace for the welfare of patients.

Keywords: Post RN Program, clinical practice, nursing education