Determination of physical assessment skills used by nurses in Turkey

Abstract

Background: Compared to other professions, physical assessment is a comparatively new concept for the nursing profession. Traditionally, physical assessment has been viewed as part of the doctors' role and has not routinely been taught in nurse training. With the advancement of the role of nursing, it has been argued that physical assessment has become a key nursing skill Objective: The purpose of this study was to identify physical assesment skills used by nurses in Turkey. Methods and material: This defining research was conducted between 01.03.2011 and 30.04.2011. The data in the research were collected by using a questionnaire, which consisted of two major parts: socio-demographic and professional questions and a list of physical assessment skills. Physical examination skills routinely performed by nurses were identified. Data were evaluated using the SPSS 15.0 program. Results: It is determined in this study that 41.5% of the nurses feel they are inadequate in terms of professional skills, The nurses who do not apply physical assessment skills (77.9%) say that this is the case because of a lack of knowledge, they consider physical diagnosis and assessment to be the doctors' duties, too many patients, heavy workload, and a limited number of the nurses. Conclusion: It is determined in this study that the use of the nurses' physical assessment skills is rare. More educational opportunities in physical assessment should be provided, including educational programs based on the nurses' skill levels and needs in the clinical area.