Implementation and Evaluation of a Training Curriculum for Experienced Nurses in Care Coordination The VA Rural Transitions Nurse Training Program

Background:High-quality transitional care at discharge is essential for improved patient outcomes. Registered nurses (RNs) play integral roles in transitions; however, few receive structured training. Purpose:We sought to create, implement, and evaluate an evidence-informed nursing transitional care coordination curriculum, the Transitions Nurse Training Program (TNTP). Methods:We conceptualized the curriculum using adult learning theory and evaluated with the New World Kirkpatrick Model. Self-reported engagement, satisfaction, acquired knowledge, and confidence were assessed using surveys. Clinical and communication skills were evaluated by standardized patient assessment and behavior sustainment via observation 6 to 9 months posttraining. Results:RNs reported high degrees of engagement, satisfaction, knowledge, and confidence and achieved a mean score of 92% on clinical and communication skills. Posttraining observation revealed skill sustainment (mean score 98%). Conclusions:Results suggest TNTP is effective for creating engagement, satisfaction, acquired and sustained knowledge, and confidence for RNs trained in transitional care.

Automated summary

The purpose of this study was to create, implement, and evaluate a nursing transitional care coordination curriculum, the Transitions Nurse Training Program (TNTP). The results showed that the program had a positive impact on trained nurses, increasing their engagement, satisfaction, knowledge, and confidence. They also achieved high scores in clinical and communication skills, with sustained skill performance after training.