Abstract:
Background: The context of work for nurses is rapidly changing due to changes in care, innovative technologies,
and emergence of new knowledge. Participation in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in many countries in Africa
remains low. Objective: The objective of the study was to explore the challenges facing Nurses while participating in CPD in
Western Kenya. Methods: A descriptive cross- sectional study design was employed where 235 stratified and randomly
selected nurses and four CPD Coordinators from four County Hospitals in Western Kenya were selected. The Key informants
and the respondents for Focus Group Discussions were selected purposively. Data for this research was collected using a semi-
structured questionnaire, interview schedules and Focus Group Discussion guide. Data analysis was done using statistical
package for social sciences (SPSS V. 20). Data was summarized using frequencies; means and standard deviation. The data
obtained was presented using percentage distributions, bar graphs and frequencies. Qualitative data was analysed thematically.
Results: Majority of the nurses reported staff shortage 199 (85.8%), lack of time due to heavy workload 179 (77.2%) and lack
of finance 137 (59.1%). Other challenges included: lack of information on availability of CPD (35.8%), family commitment
(28.9%), lack of interest (15.1%) and distance (27.2%). Findings from FGDs showed similar results; staff shortage and heavy
workload were cited as major challenges hindering nurse’s participation in CPDs. Key informants reported, lack of written
policies for CPD, lack of available guidelines for CPD and lack of coordination with other CPD coordinators either at County
level or at National level. Conclusion and Recommendations: The main challenges highlighted by nurses were:-staff shortages,
lack of time due to heavy workload, lack of finances, night shift and lack of information on the availability of CPD. Key
informants highlighted:- lack of written policies for CPD, lack of available guidelines for CPD, lack of coordination with other
CPD coordinators. The study recommends employing more nurses, formulating policies affecting CPD and providing financial
support to help support CPD activities. Coordinators should organize favorable time and space for CPD activities while
ensuring equal opportunities are offered for participation and there is need for coordination with other CPD coordinators either
at County level or at National level.
