SPECIALIST EDUCATION FOR
CHILD HEALTH NURSES
Mason K
Australian Catholic University, Brisbane, Australia
Objective: To investigate educational preparation
for child health nursing practice in Australia
Methods: Data
were gathered from a survey of education providers and professional
associations for child health nurses, and through review of curricula and
practice standards documents.
Results: The results reveal great diversity in education
programs, which is consistent with the current lack of consistency in the
development of specialist practice and education in Australia. However, the
study also highlighted a core of common values and goals for child health nursing to promote and maintain children’s
health.
Conclusion: Effective preparation of registered
nurses for specialist practice in children’s health care is linked
inextricably to changes in health policy and service delivery in addition
to ongoing development of specialist practice research and education.