A Research Competency Development Model for Nursing Administrators from Detudom Crown Prince Hospital, Ubon Rathchathani

Abstract

This research and development aimed to 1) create a model for developing research competencies among nursing administrators, and 2) study the results of using the new model at Detudom Crown Prince Hospital in the Province of Ubon Ratchathani. Research was carried out in 2 steps. Step 1 consisted in creating a new research competency development model, based on a review of relevant documents and research and focus group discussions. Step 2 was dedicated to implementation and evaluation of such model. The sample group for focus group discussion consisted of 9 people. The developed model was implemented by 30 first-line nursing administrators. The research tools included: 1) question guidelines for the focus group discussion, and 2) a research competency assessment form on knowledge, skills, and attitudes regarding research. The content validity value was between 0.67-1.00. The reliability was tested in terms of research knowledge, with a Kuder-Richardson 20 equal to 0.86. In terms of skills and attitudes regarding research, the Cronbach's alpha coefficient values ​​were at the 0.80 and 0.81 levels, respectively. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, content analysis and dependent t-test statistics.  Research results revealed as follows.

1. The model for developing research competencies of nursing administrators consisted of 6 dimensions: 1) attitudes about research, 2) basic knowledge and skills regarding research, defining the research question and review of related documents, 3) research designing skills, 4) knowledge and skills regarding sample populations, sample selection, and quality checking of research tools, 5) the use of statistics in data analysis skills, and 6) knowledge and research skills regarding the use of evidence based practice.

2. After using the new research competency development model, it was found that the nursing administrators had significantly higher research competency than before using the model (p<.001).

Therefore, nursing organizations can apply the model to stimulate and encourage nursing administrators to have better knowledge, skills, and attitudes related to further research.