BACKGROUND: Focus groups were used to determine what factors need to be considered when designing a professional development program for RNs practicing at a military community hospital. METHOD: Six focus groups were formed with RNs from multiple directorates and settings within various specialties. FINDINGS: Five thematic groupings were identified: 1) specific professional development needs for leadership, clinical/specialty practice, competence development, and maintenance, 2) methods for providing continuing education, 3) methods for evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of continuing education, 4) barriers to professional development, and 5) professional development issues impacting retention of military nurses. CONCLUSION: The professional development needs of RNs practicing in military hospitals are complex and multifaceted. The thematic groupings identified guided the design of a professional development program for RNs.
BACKGROUND: Focus groups were used to determine what factors need to be considered when designing a professional development program for RNs practicing at a military community hospital. METHOD: Six focus groups were formed with RNs from multiple directorates and settings within various specialties. FINDINGS: Five thematic groupings were identified: 1) specific professional development needs for leadership, clinical/specialty practice, competence development, and maintenance, 2) methods for providing continuing education, 3) methods for evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of continuing education, 4) barriers to professional development, and 5) professional development issues impacting retention of military nurses. CONCLUSION: The professional development needs of RNs practicing in military hospitals are complex and multifaceted. The thematic groupings identified guided the design of a professional development program for RNs.