Assessment of continuing education needs among critical care nurses in remote Québec, Canada

Abstract

Background: This study analyzed the needs of critical care nurses in remote regions of Québec regarding continuing education (CE). Method: A web-based crosssectional survey was conducted between May and June 2018. Results: A total of 78 nurses completed the survey and reported their CE needs were not being met. Only 21.9% of participants reported a satisfaction level ≥ 6 on a scale of 1 to 10 regarding the offering of CE activities in their region. The most common factors identified as barriers to participation in CE activities were working hours (68.2%), distance and travel time (68.2%), released time to attend CE activities (65.2%), costs of CE activities (57.6%), and financial support (51.5%). Conclusion: This study provides insights into CE needs among critical care nurses. Shortcomings could be addressed by increasing CE activities in remote regions as well as the proportion of critical care-specific CE activities. Moreover, time and expense coverage should be offered by employers.