Family assessment and nursing process: Skills and knowledge development program

Abstract

Background: In the family approach, it is essential for nurses to have tools to intervene. The Calgary Family Assessment Model (MCAF) is an important instrument in family nursing practice. Objectives: To know the importance attributed to the family by nurses who are part of a family health unit (FHU) in the Central Region of Portugal; Identify nurses’ knowledge of family assessment by applying the MCAF; To evaluate the impact of the application of an intervention program involving knowledge and skills on family assessment by the MCAF in nursing professionals. Methodology: Longitudinal, quasi-experimental study, performed in two moments of data collection, pre and post test design, without control group, with 8 nurses, selected by the non-probabilistic/accidental /convenience method. Results: Nurses have family supportive attitudes. There are significant statistical differences in knowledge and skills in family assessment by the MCAF before and after intervention. Conclusion: The implementation of intervention programs in family assessment by the MCAF, allows knowledge transfer and skills development.