Clinical leadership development workshop for licenced practical nurses in supportive living in Alberta: An exploratory qualitative study

Abstract

Objective: Since 2013, the scope of practice of LPNs in Alberta, Canada has expanded to include leadership in SL that requires that the development of new CL skills be prioritized. To date, few SL work-based educational programs have been devoted to developing CL skills for LPNs. The objective of this study is the assessment of the impact of a brief patient group education intervention (Conversation Maps^TM) in people with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Methods: An exploratory qualitative design was used, incorporating multiple data collection methods, including individual and focus group interviews, and a demographic questionnaire. Interview data were analyzed using thematic description.

Results and conclusions: Findings suggest that the CLD workshop was effective and feasible in SL practice settings. Data showed that improvement in LPN autonomy and control over decision-making resulted from gaining confidence and feeling empowered, which led to positive change in participants’ CL attitudes. Including other team members, health care aides (HCAs), and management in the CLD workshops also improved team relationships for all.