An investigation of the educational preparation of nurses prior to working in land-based multiplace hyperbaric chambers in Canada

Abstract

An Investigation Of The Educational Preparation Of Nurses Prior To Working In Land-based Multiplace Hyperbaric Chambers In Canada -- The purpose of this study was to describe the hyperbaric nurses working in clinical multiplace hyperbaric chambers in Canada, to determine their age, sex, marital status and educational preparation, and to identify the topics that they perceive should be included in an introductory educational program offered prior to working in multiplace hyperbaric chambers. -- Data for this descriptive study were gathered by means of author-constructed questionnaires and personal interviews. The questionnaires identified eight demographic variables, and asked participants to rate the importance of 37 topics for inclusion in a hyperbaric nursing course. The personal interview lasted approximately thirty minutes and was guided by five open-ended questions. The interview tapes were scrutinized, and content analysis was used to extract common themes which were organized into five categories. -- The sample was made up of 32 of the 33 English-speaking nurses who worked full-time, part-time or on an on-call basis in the three Canadian Hyperbaric units which were operational during January/February, 1990. These nurses were found to share many similar demographic characteristics. The interview data showed that the number of factors contributing to job satisfaction far exceeded those contributing to job dissatisfaction. -- The most frequently cited concern mentioned spontaneously by 12/32 nurses in the category of personal and lifestyle adaptations was the occurrence of significant fatigue after a hyperbaric treatment. It was noteworthy and warrants attention because this sensation has not been reported previously by hyperbaric caregivers in the literature and it is known to be associated with decompression sickness. -- Other findings were obtained in relationship to educational and professional concerns and focused on the challenges of infrequent dives and communication. The discussion includes the design of an Introductory Hyperbaric Nursing Course. At the conclusion of the study a number of recommendations related to nursing practice, education and research were made.