Clinical Educator Children's Health Burleson, Texas, United States
Title: Munch N Learn’: Building Competence and Confidence in Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurses
Abstract : As clinical nurse educators, we have observed a significant gap in continuing education opportunities for experienced nurses, particularly after COVID-19 pandemic. Lifelong learning is essential for enhancing personal development and professional responsibility, enabling nurses to stay updated with evolving medical practices and improve patient care. The COVID-19 pandemic shifted nursing education priorities toward onboarding new hires and graduate nurses, leaving experienced nurses with limited continuing education opportunities. This gap has created a need for educational programs that caters to the needs of seasoned nurses, helping them stay current with evolving best practices and interdisciplinary care strategies.
This project offers ongoing education for experienced hematology/oncology nurses across inpatient, day-hospital, and clinic settings. Monthly "Munch N' Learn" sessions, led by Clinical Nurse Educators, provide interdisciplinary opportunities to address knowledge gaps and enhance nurses' skills, fostering continuous learning and improving patient care. Verbal rounding and surveys assessed nursing needs, leading to the launch of monthly Munch N' Learn sessions. These 10–15-minute sessions, featuring snacks and expert-led content, were scheduled at shift changes and morning huddles. Topics were chosen based on staff needs, with post-surveys guiding future educational content. 1. Incentive Spirometry Techniques 2. Policy Tracker Usage 3. Capillary Gas Collection 4. Glucose Monitoring 5. Child Life Services 6. Chaplain Services 7. Nutrition 8. Respiratory Therapy Modalities 9. Professional Development 10. Fertility Preservation for Oncology and Transplant Patients
A total of 107 post-learning survey responses identified knowledge gaps and guided topic selection. Verbal feedback confirmed Munch N' Learn sessions were effective. Initial scheduling attempts failed due to patient acuity, but holding sessions during shift changes increased participation. A roadshow model improved accessibility. A program evaluation showed 67% of nurses applied the information at the bedside. Moving forward, content will be shared with staff unable to attend, and individualized session surveys will be developed.
