Abstract:
This study explored experiences in relation to the impact of the College of Nurses
of Ontario's (CNO's) mandatory Quality Assurance (QA) program on registered nurses
(RNs) working in a clinical setting of an acute care hospital.
A qualitative descriptive research design was used and data collection was done
in 2 stages. First, a survey with open-ended questions was given to 45 nurses. Second, 8
respondents from the survey were interviewed using a semistructured format. Data were
obtained from 2 groups-diploma-prepared and post diploma-prepared RNs.
Findings demonstrated that the CNO's QA program had varying influences on the
RNs' learning paths, and these differences appeared to be related to the educational
background of the individual. The diploma-prepared nurses reported that their
commitment to professional development was influenced by their level of internal
motivation, the pressures associated with time, and the need for a strong external
motivator, namely the obligation of management to conduct formal performance
appraisals. They further reported that the QA program played a part in positively altering
their commitment to continuing education. The post-diploma baccalaureate nurses
reported that the QA program played a positive role in influencing their ongoing learning,
along with their level of internal motivation, the work and health care environment, and
the element of professionalism. Several implications for nursing practice, theory, and
fiirther research also became evident.
