Nurses’ experiences of competence development in home care

Abstract Aim: The aim of this study was to describe nurses’ experiences of competence development in home care. Background: Home care services are increasingly used to support clients’ coping at home. As the number of clients with multiple diseases is growing, continuous competence development is needed. Methods: Qualitative cross-sectional study. Four registered nurses (RNs) and seven licenced practical nurses (LPNs) from one well-being services county in Finland participated in interviews. The data were analysed with thematic analysis. Findings: Three themes were found in the analysis: having adequate competence to work as a nurse in home care, being a competent and developing licenced practical nurse, and being an improving and developing registered nurse. Competence development requires continuous training. Nurses need various practises to update their knowledge and skills. Managers have an important role in supporting, organizing, and timing competence development opportunities.