Effect of Self-Learning Package on the Performance of Nurses working in Radioactive Iodine Therapy Unit

Abstract

Effect of Self-Learning Package on Safe Performance of Nurses working in Radioactive Iodine Therapy Unit Mona Mostafa Shazly*, Hemat Abd Elazeem Mostafa**, Dalia Abdallah*** Assistant Professor* and Lecturer** of Nursing Administration, Lecturer of Medical Surgical Nursing*** Faculty of Nursing, Ain-Shams University ABSTRACT Radioiodine (RAI) must be used in carefully controlled doses to treat the overactive thyroid gland. Nurses are the most likely to be exposed to its risks. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of applying self- directed learning package on safe performance of nurses dealing with Patients under Radioactive Iodine Therapy. This quasi-experimental design with pre-post-follow-up (FU) assessments was utilized in conducting this study it was carried out at Ain-shams University Oncology Hospital. The sample consisted of all the staff nurses working in this setting their total number was 58 nurses. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire sheet and an observation checklist face and content validated through experts’ opinions. The data collection lasted from February to July 2014. The results revealed that a considerable proportion of the nurses providing care to the patients under radioactive iodine therapy have knowledge deficiencies regarding thyroid gland before implementing the self -learning package (19.0%) with increase in level of knowledge after implementing the self- learning package (44.8%) , and defective practice related to occupational safety before implementing the self -learning package with increase in level of adequate practice after implementing the self- learning package (58.6%) . These nurses need more training with emphasis on applied knowledge through continuing education training courses focused on the areas of deficiency, emphasizing practical training, and linking theory to practice. The hospital administration should provide all needed equipment and supplies, with close supervision of application of all safety measures by nurses. ________________________________