One-day workshops, a platform for continuous professional development of nursing staff in a neonatal intensive care unit

Abstract

The neonatal field is constantly changing with the development of new evidence-based practice and technology. The purpose of this paper is to report on a research project that aimed to create a platform for continuous professional development to improve evidence-based neonatal practice using action research. Using Problem Resolving Action Research, a process consisting of plan, act, observe and reflect was applied by a steering committee. A nominal group discussion technique determined training priorities of nursing staff in a neonatal intensive care unit and questionnaires obtained demographic data of participants and information pertaining to workshops and professional development over a period of two years. The findings indicate that one-day workshops serve as a valuable platform to contribute to professional development to improve quality care in neonatal practice.