The challenge of change in nurse education: traditionally trained nursesʹ perceptions of Project 2000

Adapting to change can often be a difficult process. How traditionally trained nurses perceive the change brought about by Project 2000 is important, since this may affect how they view their own future, how they receive those who are qualifying via Project 2000 and how they work with Project 2000 diplomates in the future. It is, therefore, important that attempts are made to overcome any resistance to the changes brought about by Project 2000. The findings presented here are taken from the first questionnaire in a Department of Health-funded, longitudinal study into the careers of traditionally trained mental health nurses. Five hundred and fifty-six nurses were asked their views about the new training and how they thought it would affect them. Four hundred and forty-seven people returned the questionnaire: an 80% response rate. This study has revealed some positive views on Project 2000 as well as a variety of concerns.