Continuing professional education and interacting variables affecting behavioral change in practice: instrument development and administration

Abstract

Background: Instruments were developed to measure variables identified by Cervero that evaluate the complex processes and effectiveness of continuing professional education.

Method: Content validity was established with a panel of experts. Four studies were conducted to determine reliability. Data were merged to conduct factor analysis.

Results: Reliability was confirmed across studies using Cronbach's alpha. Stability was confirmed in a test-retest study. Factor analysis confirmed instrument items measure the concepts of Cervero's Model.

Conclusion: The reliable and valid instruments may be useful for continuing education and staff development nurses to measure the effectiveness of education on behavioral change in practice.