What do Nurses in Small- and Medium-Sized Hospitals Want to Learn?

The purpose of this study was to assess the educational needs of nurses in small- and medium-sized hospitals to develop an educational program. The participants were 243 nurses in three small- and medium-sized hospitals. The educational needs were measured using Borich's needs assessment method based on the required competence level and the present competence level. The present competence level was significantly lower than the required competence level in all areas. The educational needs were ranked from highest to lowest as "action and reaction of drugs", "acid-base balance", and "medication". The educational needs were significantly different according to turnover intention. We recognize that nurses in small- and medium-sized hospitals have low self-competence and want to learn direct patient care regarding patients' safety. Nursing educators and administrators should consider their needs when they prepare educational programs for nurses in small- and medium-sized hospitals.