Understanding female nurses' decision-making to participate in continuing professional development activities: a grounded theory study in a Saudi context

Abstract

Background: Continuing professional development (CPD) offers nurses the opportunity to broaden their knowledge and skills, as well as developing their competencies and abilities to practice in a way that is not generally available during basic education or daily work. Expanded nursing knowledge and practice together with rapid changes in healthcare and the explosion of technology have created an ever-greater need for appropriate CPD opportunities. Many studies have explored the various factors, motivations and barriers that can influence nurses’ ability to participate in CPD activities. However, in the context of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), where the nursing profession faces many unique challenges, it is possible that cultural and other contextual factors could uncover different factors and dimensions that influence nurses' CPD. Aim: This study aims to understand how female Saudi nurses decide whether or not to participate in CPD activities and what factors influence their decisions. Method: This study used a qualitative grounded theory approach. In depth interviews conducted with 20 participants, who was selected through purposive and theoretical sampling. Findings: The data analysis and constant comparison of the data yielded the development of four main categories and the core category. The core category “The stages of the nurses' decision-making process to participate in CPD activities” and a conceptual representation of the decision-making model were developed to represent the connections between the four main categories. The core category encompasses the decision-making process for nurses to participate in continuing professional development programs. ii Each category represents a distinct stage in this decision-making process. In the first category, workplace conditions are identified, which provide a fundamental basis for making a decision. Next, nurses are required to consider their individual professional development needs, followed by identification of options that may be available to them. The final stage involves comparing and evaluating these options. Conclusion: The nurses’ decision to participate in professional development programs is not a routine, isolated decision. Instead, it is a result of a comprehensive process influenced by various factors both within and outside the work environment, emphasizing the significance of understanding the contextual circumstances surrounding the decision. Therefore, it is crucial for healthcare organizations and regulatory bodies to establish clear and supportive administrative conditions that enable nurses to make informed decisions regarding their CPD and ensure their ongoing professional development.