Nurses' Knowledge of Growth and Developmental Principles in Meeting Psychosocial Needs of Hospitalized Children

Abstract

This was a replication of a study by Dr. Angela Gillis of Nova Scotia. A descriptive survey design was used to assess nurses' knowledge of growth and developmental principles when providing psychosocial care to children. Gillis' questionnaire was mailed to all known pediatric registered nurses of Iowa in 1995. Four hundred nineteen questionnaires were returned. Study results lend support to Gillis' findings regarding a need for improvement in the knowledge and application of growth and developmental principles by pediatric nurses. The study found instructors to be more knowledgeable than both staff nurses and supervisors. Master's prepared nurses were also more knowledgeable than nurses with both associate degrees and diploma preparation. The results of the study suggest ways to strengthen nurses' knowledge and accomplishments in this significant area of pediatric nursing.