Nurses serve as the link between patients and healthcare systems. They ensure that the highest standards of care are followed and that the patient’s concerns are addressed. This is why the pursuit of knowledge and skills beyond initial nursing education are so important: continuous learning ensures that nurses remain competent, responsive, and innovative in their practice.
Continuous professional learning (CPD) encompasses a range of activities, including formal education, workshops, conferences, and informal learning opportunities within the workplace. It supports up-to-date patient care and enhances the overall healthcare system’s efficiency.
A study published by the US Library of Medicine showed that mandatory CPD requirements motivate nurses to complete continuous learning modules, which improves both knowledge and behaviour. Interestingly, CPD that is more interactive is most effective and E-learning is as effective as face-to-face CPD. In other words, all learning is good learning.
South Africa’s medical landscape presents unique challenges, making the argument for continuous learning and support even more important. Consider the following benefits of CPD programs:
- Like all sectors, the healthcare field is experiencing changes in technologies, as well as treatments and patient care protocols. Nurses must stay abreast of these developments to provide the highest standard of care.
- Continuous learning helps nurses meet licensure and certification requirements, ensuring they comply with the latest regulations and standards.
- Once SANC has formalised the process, Nurses will have to obtain CPD points to be able to renew their annual license to practice (SANC registration)
Engaging in ongoing education and training opportunities broadens a nurse’s skill set and knowledge base, paving the way for career advancement and specialisation
Strategies for creating a culture of continuous learning
To cultivate an environment of continuous learning, hospitals, healthcare providers, and nurses themselves must be proactive. The good news is that there a number of ways to encourage and support this essential practice and recognising staff achievements in professional development.
Given the demanding nature of Shifts worked by nurses, flexible learning formats such as online courses, webinars, and part-time study options can help nurses balance their work and educational pursuits. The key is to encourage a culture that values curiosity, innovation, and knowledge sharing to motivate nurses to pursue continuous learning. This can be achieved through mentorship programs and interdisciplinary learning opportunities.
It’s also important for nurses to work with their managers or educational coordinators to develop personalised learning plans that align with their career goals, interests, and areas for improvement.
The consequences of neglecting continuous learning
The absence of a commitment to continuous learning can have harmful effects on the healthcare system and patient care. Without ongoing education, nurses risk falling behind current best practices, which can lead to outdated or suboptimal patient care. A stagnation in professional development can decrease job satisfaction and confidence, and increase turnover rates among nursing staff. Ultimately, the neglect of continuous learning compromises the quality of healthcare delivery and the patient experience, highlighting its undeniable importance in nursing.
How Charisma can help
Charisma Healthcare Solutions falls within the Adcorp Group of companies. Our business was established in 1992 and we continue to participate actively by deploying Nurses nationally into various Hospitals. Charisma is managed by nurses who understand the need of safe practice and training requirements in nursing.
We have a successful track record in sourcing and screening and have a robust work readiness program under the tutorage of our Clinical Facilitators.
As an employer, we take responsibility of tracking all training interventions attended by our staff.
We have received positive feedback on our Webinars where we present relevant topics that are directed to the Nursing Community. It is a great way to secure additional CPD points and so we suggest that you keep a look out for the next Charisma webinar. This investment will most certainly expand and challenge your knowledge.
