Essential Components of a Neuroscience Nursing Orientation: A Delphi Study

BACKGROUND: The essential components of an effective neuroscience nurse orientation program for those caring for the adult general care population have not been well defined or standardized. METHODS: Using a 2-round, modified Delphi methodology, electronic surveys were distributed to 53 experts in neuroscience nursing orientation to gain consensus on the essential components of orientation for the neuroscience nurse. Survey data included demographics of the expert, literature-based components of neuroscience nurse orientation, and an opportunity to agree/disagree or write in additional components. RESULTS: Round 1 of the consensus survey elicited a response rate of 55% (29/53), and round 2 had a 51% (27/53) response rate. On the basis of round 1 expert responses, 4 new orientation components were added, and 36 components of a neuroscience nursing orientation were revised to include only the elements with ≥75% agreement. Twenty-two elements in round 2 met the criteria of ≥75% very important and important to include as components of a neuroscience nursing orientation. CONCLUSION: An expert consensus was reached on the necessary components of a neuroscience nursing orientation. The identified neuroscience nursing orientation components concentrated on improving nursing practice and provision of care to adult neuroscience patients. This study demonstrates priority components within a standardized orientation program for neuroscience nurses based on literature and expert consensus. A comprehensive neuroscience nursing orientation is a vital step in sustaining high-quality care for patients and improving neurological outcomes.