The predictive strength of students’ self-efficacy, problem solving skills to perform catheter care

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the predictive strength of students' self-efficacy, problem-solving skills, and other characteristics in performing intravenous practices and monitor phlebitis and infiltration. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out with 736 third and fourth-year students studying at the Health Sciences Faculties of Balikesir and Sakarya universities. The data were collected using the Self-Efficacy Scale, Problem-Solving Inventory and Catheter Care and Infiltration Monitoring Questionnaire. Results: The participants' mean Catheter Care and Infiltration Monitoring Questionnaire score significantly and positively correlated with their mean Self-Efficacy Scale score on a moderate level (r=.25; p<.001) but significantly and negatively correlated with their mean Problem-Solving Inventory score on a moderate level (r=-.21; p<.001). In other words, because a low Problem-Solving Inventory score indicates that the person's problem-solving skill is high, the Care and Infiltration Monitoring Questionnaire score increased as the problem-solving skill increased. While the Self-Efficacy Scale predicted the year of study and catheter care and infiltration monitoring variables positively, the Problem-Solving Inventory predicted the satisfaction with the profession variable negatively. Conclusion: Self-efficacy, problem-solving, liking the profession, and year of study predict success in catheter care and infiltration monitoring. For this reason, guidance may be provided in the development of a comprehensive education system toward increasing students' problem-solving skills, self-efficacy, and professional knowledge and skills.