Abstract:

Introduction:
Educational method used in Nursing Degree of Jaume I University (UJI) ensures continuity in learning process through integrated learning outcomes (theory-simulated practice-clinical practices). This integrated learning approach is translated into an integrated evaluation method (50% theory and 50% practice), and a sequential learning objectives in clinical learning (Guide to assess of clinical practices), with accredited and trained clinical nurses who are responsible for learning and assessment process (reference nurse), along with teachers of the subjects.

Objective:
The main objective of this study is to know competences acquisition outcomes of an integrated learning method in the matter “Nursing Care in Healthcare Processes” (NCHP) second-year Nursing Degree, through an integrated evaluation method.

Methodology:
A cross sectional study was performed and conducted on 60 students of second-year Nursing Degree. Variables are both theoretical and practical ratings in four subjects, Reference Nurse (RefN)-student ratio in clinical units and assessment records used (Guide to assess of clinical practices, clinical case oral defense, clinical practice report, computerized activity records).

Results:
55 students were included in the study. 90.9% (n=55) passed all subjects. In the clinical practices, 87.93% of students performed 83% of the learning activities (mean score of clinical practice= 8.3, SD= 1.22). The RefN-student ratio was 0.77 (sd= 0.41, CV= 0.54), presented variability between units (p-value<0.05). No differences in ratings of the clinical practices by hospitals, except in clinical case oral defense (p-value <0.05).

Conclusions:
The integrated learning approach used in Nursing Degree from the UJI get good results and allows evaluating skills acquisition in clinical practice with planning activities. This method seems well understood by Refn and hospitals. Nevertheless, areas for improvement in teaching have been identified through the analysis of evaluation results and seem advisable to develop strategies to increase the involvement of RenfN.

Keywords:

Nursing, Nursing education, Educational methods, Learning by objectives.