Date Approved

6-2-2004

Graduate Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Nursing (M.S.N.)

Degree Program

College of Nursing

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to expand on the body of knowledge related to the reasons far participation and non-participation in continuing education (CE). The study examined the relationship between Registered Nurses (RNs) perceived benefits of and perceived barriers to CE and their reported participation in CE programs. The Health Belief Model is the theoretical framework utilized for this study, with the variables of perceived benefits and perceived barriers in particular. This was a secondary analysis of data collected in a descriptive correlational study where RNs employed in two acute care hospitals in the Midwest were surveyed. Descriptive statistics were used to identify the perceived benefits of and barriers to CE and to describe the sample. A weak but significant relationship was found between perceived benefits and number of continuing education units (CEUs). A weak negative relationship was found between barriers and number of CEUs. No significant relationship was found between benefits, barriers and academic credits. Benefits and barriers that were identified in this study to be more influential supported the existing literature.

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