Clinical teaching by registered nurses

Abstract

The purpose of this quantitative, descriptive study was to describe how registered nurses

utilise teachable moments to enhance students' learning in the clinical setting. The research questions were: What are the problems faced by registered nurses when they teach students in the clinical setting? and How do registered nurses utilise teachable moments to teach students? A pilot study was conducted in the clinical setting involving the respondents who had similar characteristics than the population. The sample consisted of 45 registered nurses who provided direct patient care in the clinical setting. A self­ administered, structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Data analysis was done by using descriptive statistical tests. The findings brought to light strengths and weaknesses with regard to the utilisation of teachable moments by registered nurses, and problems faced by registered nurses with regard to clinical accompaniment in general. Recommendations to improve clinical accompaniment by registered nurses through effective utilisation of teachable moments were made. Further research was recommended to explore some problematic areas that emerged from this study.