Effectiveness of a 7E teaching model based on symptom management theory in new nurse induction training: a quasi-experimental study.

BACKGROUND

Newly graduated nurses (NGNs) often lack dynamic symptom assessment and management skills, a core competency deficit that increases adverse event risks and transition shock. Traditional training methods frequently fail to bridge this theory-practice gap. AIM: To evaluate the effectiveness of a novel teaching model, integrating the 7E learning cycle with Symptom Management Theory (SMT), on the competencies and clinical outcomes of NGNs. STUDY

DESIGN

A quasi-experimental design with pre-/post-test assessments at three time points (T0, T1, and T2) was employed. SETTINGS: A tertiary hospital in China.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 136 NGNs were included. Participants were assigned to an intervention group (n = 68) or a control group (n = 68).

METHODS

The control group received traditional didactic and case-based training. The intervention group received the SMT-informed 7E teaching model. Outcomes were measured using the Competency Inventory for Registered Nurse (CIRN), Transition Shock Scale for NGNs (TSNGNS), Self-Rating Scale of Self-Directed Learning (SRSSDL), and the Nursing Mini-Clinical Evaluation Exercise (Nursing-Mini-CEX). Data were collected at baseline (T0), at 6-months (T1), and at 12-months (T2). Adverse event rates were analyzed using Interrupted Time Series (ITS).

RESULTS

At T1 and T2, the intervention group exhibited significantly higher scores in core competency (p < 0.001), self-directed learning ability (p < 0.001), and objective clinical practice (Nursing-Mini-CEX, p < 0.001) compared to the control group. Lower levels of transition shock were also observed in the intervention group (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the ITS analysis indicated a significant reduction in the adverse event rate following the hospital-wide implementation of the intervention (β = −0.114, p = 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

The SMT-informed 7E teaching model is a highly effective strategy for new nurse induction. It significantly enhances clinical competencies, improves self-directed learning, mitigates transition shock, and improves patient safety by reducing adverse events. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.