The Princess Máxima Center employs 20 nurse specialists and trains an average of nine. A visitation committee consisting of four people conducted day-long interviews with nurse specialists (in training), trainers, medical masters, practical trainers, management and lecturers from Utrecht and Leiden University of Applied Sciences, respectively. They assessed based on five themes: vision and positioning, quality assurance of practical training, organization, supervision and professionalization of the training group.
Reflective attitude
The visitation committee talked about a 'fun but intensive day' and the same was of course true for all staff who conducted the interviews with them. A visitation is always a little daunting, especially if it is the first. The committee members were also shown around part of the Máxima building. 'The visitation panel very much appreciated this tour, in this beautiful hospital, for a special group. The various interviewees approached the review panel with an open and reflective attitude,’ said the members of the committee.
Interprofessional cooperation
The chair of the visitation committee stated: ‘The nurse specialists in training and other professionals who work at the Máxima Center are spirited and enthusiastic. And we saw such passion! Moreover, there is a culture of interprofessional collaboration, learning and improvement.' In the final report with 10 compliments, 0 weighty recommendations and 13 recommendations for further improvement, it is phrased as follows: 'The visitation committee praises the accessible and safe practical learning climate, the supervision of the nurse specialist trainees and the cooperation between the enthusiastic practical trainers and medical teachers. In addition, the visitation committee makes a number of recommendations for further improvement, mainly aimed at achieving a continued development for quality assurance of practical education.’
Best practice
'Based on this, the Nursing Specialties Registration Committee has decided to continue the accreditation of the Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, for providing practical education to nurses in training to become specialists,' the visitation report states. With the accompanying appreciation for everyone's efforts in promoting the quality of practical training for the nurse specialist. Maike Verhoeven, Academy manager, says: 'We recognize the recommendations for further improvement and have started working on them. The fact that the visitation committee also saw the reflective attitude in many people is an important compliment! And we are proud of the appreciation we received for the clear views on the role of the nurse specialist as a case manager, as laid down in the policy document 'Bestest nurse'. The review committee identified this as valuable best practice.’