Date of Award
Spring 1994
Document Type
Thesis - Restricted
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Nursing
First Advisor
Krejci, Janet Wessel
Second Advisor
Coenen, Amy
Third Advisor
Malin, Shelly
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to describe nurses' perceptions of independent nursing practice in a hospital setting. This study was part of a larger study which used a descriptive research design to survey 1000 nurses from a university affiliated, teaching hospital. An investigator-designed (Krejci & Malin, 1992), open-ended questionnaire was used to obtain the data (Appendix A). A random sample of 30% (or a minimum of four nurses) (n=258) from each hospital unit were used for this secondary data analysis. Qualitative methods were used to analyze the data. The findings identified that nurses perceived independent nursing I practice as existing, encourage/discussed, valued, visible, essential for patient care, and efficacious. In addition, some nurses reported that independent nursing practice was non-existent, not encouraged, not valued, and not visible. The most frequently identified supports to independent nursing practice were the documentation system, co-workers, management, consultation services, and empowerment. The most frequently identified barriers to independent nursing practice were the patient care delivery system, management, the medical staff, documentation and paperwork, and limited communication. Some differences were noted among units and specialty areas.
Recommended Citation
Sternard, Marsha Jo, "Nurses' Perceptions of Professional Nursing Practice: Supports and Barriers to Independent Practice" (1994). Master's Theses (1922-2009) Access restricted to Marquette Campus. 3708.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/theses/3708