Needs Assessment of the Dental Nurse Competency at Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospitals in Suphanburi Province
Keywords:
Needs Assessment, Dental Nurse, CompetencyAbstract
This research aimed to assess the competencies of dental nurses, to identify and prioritize their necessary competencies at subdistrict health promoting hospitals, in Suphanburi province, as perceived by both the dental nurses and their supervisors. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, with two phases for exploratory sequential design. Phase 1 involved qualitative research, in-depth interviews were conducted with nine key informants, to develop a competency framework. Phase 2 consisted of quantitative research, utilizing a questionnaire based on the insights gathered from these interviews. The sample population of 160 individuals, comprising 80 dental nurses and 80 supervisors. Data from the surveys were analyzed to prioritize the competencies using the Modified Priority Needs Index (PNImodified) technique.
The findings indicated that both the dental nurses and the supervisors agreed on the competencies that have the highest levels of need: knowledge (PNImodified = 0.196 for dental nurses and 0.232 for supervisors), followed by skills (PNImodified = 0.172 and 0.203, respectively), and personal attributes (PNImodified = 0.137 and 0.097, respectively). The most critical competencies identified were knowledge of innovative applications, decision-making skills, and the ability to provide first-line care in dental emergencies, as well as the attributes relevant to the development of health and dental innovation. The results of this study are valuable guide for directing personnel development, shaping curricula and training programs, and establishing policies and standards for dental nurses that align with the mission of subdistrict health promotion hospitals.
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