title: Attendance at NHS mandatory training sessions.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To identify factors that affect NHS healthcare professionals' attendance at mandatory training sessions.
  
  
  METHODS
  A quantitative approach was used, with a questionnaire sent to 400 randomly selected participants. A total of 122 responses were received, providing a mix of qualitative and quantitative data. Quantitative data were analysed using statistical methods. Open-ended responses were reviewed using thematic analysis.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Clinical staff value mandatory training sessions highly. They are aware of the requirement to keep practice up-to-date and ensure patient safety remains a priority. However, changes to the delivery format of mandatory training sessions are required to enable staff to participate more easily, as staff are often unable to attend.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The delivery of mandatory training should move from classroom-based sessions into the clinical area to maximise participation. Delivery should be assisted by local 'experts' who are able to customise course content to meet local requirements and the requirements of different staff groups. Improved arrangements to provide staff cover, for those attending training, would enable more staff to attend training sessions.
authors: School of Health Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, England.
authors: Darren
authors: D
authors: Brand
mesh_terms: D002983:Clinical Competence / Q000592:standards; D006282:Health Personnel / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013663:Teaching / Q000639:trends*; D006113:United Kingdom
keywords: Education; mandatory training; patient safety research