Professional development in pediatric nursing: A study on the impact of educational module in legal and ethical care

Abstract

The increasing complexity of legal and ethical issues in pediatric healthcare necessitates enhanced competencies among nurses. This study investigates the impact of a teaching module on the legal and ethical knowledge and practices of nurses in a pediatric tertiary care centre in South India. : A quasi-experimental, one-group pre-test and post-test design were employed over a four-week period. The participants included 60 registered nurses who were not involved in operation theaters, outpatient departments, or night shifts. A validated semi-structured questionnaire assessed the nurses' knowledge and practices before and after the intervention. The teaching module consisted of a 45-minute session that combined lecture discussions, PowerPoint presentations, and handouts. Results showed significant improvements in knowledge and practice post-intervention, with average knowledge scores increasing by 32.88% and practice scores by 41.00%. Additionally, demographic factors such as age and working experience positively correlated with knowledge and practice gains. This study underlines the effectiveness of teaching modules in closing the gap in legal and ethical training among pediatric nurses, suggesting that such educational initiatives could substantially enhance patient care and reduce legal risks.