Evaluation of satisfaction, employment outcomes and job satisfaction of graduates of a University Rehabilitation Assistant diploma program

Dignum, Tracy (2010) Evaluation of satisfaction, employment outcomes and job satisfaction of graduates of a University Rehabilitation Assistant diploma program. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

[English] PDF - Accepted Version Available under License - The author retains copyright ownership and moral rights in this thesis. Neither the thesis nor substantial extracts from it may be printed or otherwise reproduced without the author's permission. Download (9MB)

Abstract

Rehabilitation Assistants (RA) are a recent addition to British Columbia's healthcare system. Capilano University's Rehabilitation Assistant Diploma Program (RADP) trains graduates for employment as assistants for occupational therapists, physiotherapists and speech language pathologists and audiologists. This study examined levels of employment success and job satisfaction of Capilano University RADP graduates (2005 - 2009). The study determined the range of employment outcomes of graduates and obtained information concerning satisfaction with their role as an RA by applying the Measure of Job Satisfaction (MJS) tool as developed and validated by Traynor & Wade in 1991 for community nurses in the United Kingdom (Traynor & Wade, 1993). -- This mixed-methods study consisted of an electronic questionnaire of all RADP graduates and a telephone interview with a stratified sample of twelve graduates from the four graduating cohorts from the program. The questionnaire collected information concerning employment outcomes and levels of satisfaction of the RADP graduates, future education plans, and satisfaction with Capilano's RADP. The telephone interviews examined how effectively RADP prepared graduates for their current employment as well as RA satisfaction with scope of practice, role and supervision in their current jobs. -- The findings of this study indicate that the graduates of RADP at Capilano University are satisfied in their current employment situation. The mean Measure of Job Satisfaction (MJS) score of the RADP graduates employed as RAs was in the high neutral- satisfied range. The graduates indicated satisfaction with their role and contribution to the health care team, supervision model, and opportunities for continuing education. Areas of dissatisfaction identified were prospects for promotion, salary, and workload. -- A majority of the RAs recommend Capilano's RADP and feel that the program has prepared them well for their current work environment. Positive aspects of the program include the clinical fieldwork placements and skills training in occupational therapy and physiotherapy assisting. The primary suggestion for improvement identified by the RADP graduates is to supplement speech language pathology and audiology courses and clinical exposure. -- It is relevant to rehabilitation professionals and health system managers that the lack of promotion opportunities for RAs in BC may result in migration from the field. Improved work environments and enhanced professional growth opportunities may slow this attrition and allow RAs to remain in their role and continue to contribute effectively to rehabilitation teams. -- Key words: Capilano University; Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA); Physiotherapy Assistant (PTA); Rehabilitation Assistant (RA); Rehabilitation Assistant Diploma Program (RADP); Speech Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA)

Actions (login required)

View Item