Application of the planning compass to the nursing curriculum: a tool for health promotion practice

Abstract

From first paragraph: Nursing as a profession is currently in a state of change. In the process of change, health promotion was first given prominence as an aspect of the role of the nurse in the Strategy for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting in Scotland (Scottish Home and Health Department 1989). The introduction in Scotland of Project 2000 nursing courses in September 1992 saw curricular policy further identify the importance of nurses as promotors of health as well as carers for the sick. Nurses are expected not only to acquire the competencies required to advise on the promotion of health and the prevention of illness but also to recognize situations that may be detrimental to the health and well-being of individuals (UKCC 1986). To assist this role, the new health-based curriculum of Project 2000 explores the theoretical content of health promotion, translating these concepts into clinical competencies for the students. Having the benefit of a formal preregistration health promotion programme, however, does not guarantee skills acquisition for practice.