Journal of Perioperative & Critical Intensive Care Nursing
Open Access
ISSN: 2471-9870
ISSN: 2471-9870
Diane Piper
Southern Cross Care WAl, Perth, Australia
Scientific Tracks Abstracts: J Perioper Crit Intensive Care Nurs
Background: Graduate registered nurses (RNs) start their careers working in a variety of clinical areas including aged care. However, they may not be fully prepared to work in aged care settings that often require them to work independently as the only RN on the premises. A list of essential clinical skills is crucial for supporting the development and effective transition of graduate nurses into aged care. Aim: To identify and rank a list of essential clinical skills for graduate RNs working in aged care settings on commencement of practice. Methods: An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was applied and included a modified Delphi Study and semi-structured interviews. Five expert aged care Registered Nurses in a West Australian setting engaged in the three iterative Delphi rounds and five graduate RNs were interviewed to confirm the clinical skills and ranking from their perspective. Quantitative data were presented through descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Thirty-six (n=36) essential clinical skills for the graduate registered nurse working in aged care settings were identified and ranked by the experienced aged care RNs. Graduate RNs supported this list of essential clinical skills on commencement and identified palliative care as an additional skill required by graduate RNs working in aged care. Conclusion: The derived essential skills offer aged care a guided approach to ensure that graduate RNs are work-ready, safe practitioners and supported to work independently. Implications for practice: The study recommends the essential clinical skills for graduate nurses transitioning in their role as RNs in aged care that will support safe, quality clinical care.
Diane Piper is a Registered Nurse, currently serving as a Clinical Nurse Consultant at Southern Cross Care, and has over ten years of experience in healthcare education and training. Her expertise spans private hospitals, aged care, and disability services across metropolitan and regional Western Australia. Diane is passionate about fostering professional development and enhancing the quality of care through effective support, education and training. In her current role at Southern Cross Care, Diane collaborates closely with quality teams to implement evi dence-based, person-centred care aligned with Aged Care standards. She plays a pivotal role in mentoring Clinical Nurse Managers and Registered Nurses, equipping them with the skills necessary for safe and effective practice.