Is modified brief assertiveness training for nurses effective? A single‐group study with long‐term follow‐up. (25th July 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Yoshinaga, Naoki; Nakamura, Yohei; Tanoue, Hiroki; MacLiam, Fionnula; Aoishi, Keiko; Shiraishi, Yuko
• Is Part Of: Journal of nursing management. Volume 26:Number 1(2018)
• Page Start: 59
• Page End: 65
• Publication Date: 2017-07-25
• Subjects: assertiveness training -- communication -- education -- nurse -- workplace; Nursing services -- Administration -- Periodicals; Nursing services -- Business management -- Periodicals; 610.73068
• DOI: 10.1111/jonm.12521
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0966-0429

Abstract

Abstract : Aim: To evaluate the long‐term effectiveness of modified brief assertiveness training (with cognitive techniques) for nurses. Background: Most assertiveness training takes a long time to conduct; thus, briefer training is required for universal on‐the‐job training in the workplace. Methods: In this single‐group study, nurses received two 90‐min training sessions with a 1‐month interval between sessions. The degree of assertiveness was assessed by using the Rathus Assertiveness Schedule as the primary outcome, at four time points: pre‐ and post‐training, 3‐month follow‐up and 6‐month follow‐up. Results: A total of 33 nurses received the training, and the mean Rathus Assertiveness Schedule score improved from −14.2 ( SD = 16.5) pre‐training to −10.5 ( SD = 18.0) post‐training ( p < .05). These improvements were maintained until the 6‐month follow‐up. The pre–post effect size of 0.22 (indicating small effect) was larger than the effect sizes ranging from −0.56 to 0.17 (no effect) reported in previous studies that used brief training. Conclusions: Modified brief assertiveness training seems feasible and may achieve long‐term favourable outcomes in improving assertiveness among nurses. Implications for Nursing Management: The ease of implementation of assertiveness training is important because creating an open environment for communication leads to improved job satisfaction, improved nursing care and increased patient safety.