Increasing the self-efficacy in nurses who provide women veteran healthcare

Historically, the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) nurses have mostly tended to male veterans. Yet, since 2000, the number of female Veterans using Veterans Administration health care has more than doubled (Dept. of Veteran Affairs). This increase created a knowledge gap in gender specific care.

A VHA program review in Bedford, Massachusetts, identified deficits in Cultural Competencies & Awareness of Nursing Staff, particularly around women’s health. It was determined that to improve the Women’s Health Program (WHP) in Bedford and help bridge the knowledge gap, there had to be an increase in self-efficacy among nurses educating female Veterans.  

To establish baseline knowledge of nurses and inform further training, a 26-question needs assessment based on previous women’s health training was designed and conducted by a public health student. During a one-week period, 13 nurses submitted completed assessments via email. Data was analyzed through Microsoft Excel, creating a Pareto Chart identifying the educational needs of the nurses.

            Results indicated needed training in routine pelvic exams, Pap smear testing, and contraception. Data illustrated that participants were knowledgeable of these areas, but need more education for applying it.

Training will be deployed in these areas via modules and on the job training. Subsequently, a post assessment will measure changes in self-efficacy. Although sample size was small, this assessment helped educational programs meet the current needs of the nursing staff. The assessment can be adapted to help other VHA hospitals and become an important tool to meet the needs of a growing patient population: women veterans.