Describes the planning and implementation of a continuing education program for registered nurses at the Petersburg, Virginia, General Hospital School of Nursing. The success of a series of refresher courses for nurses returning to active practice encouraged curriculum extension. Responses to an evaluative follow up questionnaire completed by all…

A refresher course to facilitate the return of inactive nurses to the work force included a weighted admission system, didactic content, simulated laboratory experiences, and precepted clinical experiences. Recommendations for future course implementation included a systematic evaluation of each participant's knowledge base at the beginning of the…

Online refresher courses were designed for geographically isolated nurses returning to work. Course design incorporated principles of effective distance education: humanizing the learning environment, engaging participants, using the right message, and eliciting feedback. Issues of technical support, testing, and faculty preparation had to be…

Author examines the principles of learning and retention as a base for performance training in a life threatening situation. (Editor)

Outlines the history of continuing education in nursing from the earliest activities sponsored by alumnae associations through its necessity as a condition for the relicensure of nurses and other health professionals. (Author/RK)