Barriers to Participation in Continuing Education Activities Among Rural and Remote Nurses

Background: This article examines the barriers to participation in continuing education activities that are perceived by rural and remote registered nurses in Canada.

Methods: The data are drawn from a national survey that was part of a larger national project, "The Nature of Nursing Practice in Rural and Remote Canada."

Results: Perceived barriers to participation in continuing education activities include the isolation of rural nurses and time and financial constraints. Nurses who perceived barriers to participation were more likely to be middle-aged, unmarried, and working full-time than nurses who did not perceive barriers. They were also more likely to possess higher levels of nursing education and have children or dependents. The perception of barriers to participation was also associated with lower job and scheduling satisfaction.

Conclusions: Rural and remote registered nurses have moderately high levels of participation in continuing education; however, participation and job satisfaction can be improved if some of the barriers identified are addressed.