Integration of Motivational Interviewing Within Prelicensure Nursing Programs

A National Survey

Abstract

Background: 

Vital to the nurse-patient partnership is the use of active listening and a clear understanding of the patient's health care goals. Motivational Interviewing is an evidence-based, patient-centered communication technique that assists patients in self-identifying and committing to health behavior change.

Purpose: 

This study explored whether, where, and how Motivational Interviewing is integrated into current prelicensure nursing curricula.

Methods: 

An exploratory, descriptive study incorporated a researcher-developed survey.

Results: 

Participants (N = 112) represented 5 types of prelicensure nursing programs from across the United States. Forty-one participants reported using Motivational Interviewing within their program with accreditation being the primary rationale. Seventy-one participants reported not integrating Motivational Interviewing within their program with lack of knowledge being the primary rationale.

Conclusion: 

Further research on optimizing the integration of Motivational Interviewing educational content and practice into all levels and specialty areas of nursing education would help to identify best practices.