Core competencies and perceived training needs of nurses in the background of Internet plus nursing service:a qualitative descriptive study

Background:The Internet plus nursing service program is being piloted in China,which has become a new home nursing service model led by nurses.To enable safe and effective homecare service delivery,nurses working in the program need a high level of competency.However,the content of these core competencies and the training needs of nurses for Internet plus nursing services are still unknown.Aim:To describe nurses’perceptions of core competencies and training needs to work in the Internet plus nursing service program,thereby providing a reference for the development of training programs.Methods:A qualitative descriptive study using semi-structured interviews was conducted on 15 nurses with experience of working in the Internet plus nursing service program.Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim,and the data were analyzed using thematic analysis.Results:Core competencies involved comprehensive assessment competence,direct care practice competence,health education and consulting competence,risk estimation and response competence,and communication competence.Training needs involved complex operational items,knowledge of chronic disease management,professional communication,risk identification and response,nursing standards,norms,and procedures,and utilization of information technology.Conclusions:The training system may be developed based on nurses’core competencies and their training needs to promote professional development of the Internet plus nursing service.

Analysis of the Current Situation of“Internet Plus Nursing Service”

In the era of“Internet Plus,”technologies like big data,the Internet of Things,and cloud computing have revitalized nursing services in China,leading to the emergence of the“Internet Plus Nursing Services”model.This model facilitates on-site nursing care for discharged patients and special groups with mobility challenges,further advancing the construction of a Healthy China and enabling more people to access high-quality and continuous nursing services.Governments at all levels should actively improve the systems related to“Internet Plus Nursing Services”and simplify the appointment and operation processes.It is also essential to standardize the medical waste disposal process to ensure the quality of on-site nursing services,protect the legitimate rights and interests of both caregivers and patients and safeguard patient privacy and security.Additionally,building a robust“Internet Plus”platform to promote“online appointment of nurses”services,integrate nursing resources,and foster the healthy development of“Internet Plus Nursing Services”is crucial.