Where is the evidence that master's level nursing education makes a difference to patient care? A literature review

Aim: This paper reports on a literature review conducted to explore whether there is evidence that postgraduate nursing education at master's level affects patient care. Background: Continued nursing education has been shown to benefit nurses' development, though little research has been conducted in relation to patient benefit. It is increasingly widespread that nurses pursue education to master's level. Method: Following a systematic review of the literature fifteen studies of mixed methodology and design were examined and data extracted using thematic analysis. Five common themes emerged relating to master's level nursing education that may ultimately affect patient care: increased confidence and self esteem; enhanced communication; personal and professional growth; knowledge and application of theory to practise; and analytical thinking and decision making. Conclusion: It is apparent that there are positive gains for nurses who undertake postgraduate nursing study at master's level related to professional and personal qualities which may provide direct benefit to patients. The supportive evidence extracted from the literature was scant, however. Future research needs to focus on developing measurable and observable criteria against which the educational and skill based outcomes for master's level performance can be evaluated including constraints that may adversely affect a nurse's ability to apply knowledge and skills acquired. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.