Is reading part of the lifelong learning process for RNs?
A 1988 national survey of 1,406 Registered Nurses (RNs) was conducted at 44 sites in 25 states and the District of Columbia to determine what type of occupation-related and general literature they read, what time they devote to reading, their purposes for reading, and the uses of the materials they read. The survey found that nurses are reading. They read, purchase, and subscribe to significantly more general than professional literature. They report that libraries are accessible, but they use them on a limited basis. The RNs also responded that their supervisors do not to support them in their pursuit of reading. Clinical journals, clinical books, and health-related newsletters are the top nursing materials read, newspapers and fiction books the most popular general literature.