290 From guidelines to highlights: exploring nurses’ perceived competence in implementing the revised initial health assessment model for asylum seekers: a mixed methods study

Abstract EP3.3, e-Poster Terminal 3, September 4, 2025, 10:05 - 10:25 Background In Finland, reception center nurses conduct voluntary, free initial health assessments for asylum seekers upon arrival. The assessment model was recently revised through a national project. Despite the increasing number of asylum seekers, limited research exists on refugee health nursing and its impact. Method This mixed-method study utilized data from the Reception Centre Nurses’ Competence Survey, collected in 2024. A total of 217 nurses were invited in the study of which 97 participated. Determinants of Implementation Behavior Questionnaire-mp and additional open-ended questions were used to measure nurses’ competence aligned with the aims of the revised IHA model and its implementation. Concept-driven thematic analysis and descriptive statistical analysis were employed to analyze the data. Preliminary findings Overall nurses perceived their competence as high. However, the lowest scores were observed in skills. Knowledge in areas of infection control and prevention, migrant health, and legal foundations, as well as the development of skills related to mental health, communication and collaborative skills and health promotion, were identified as essential. Additionally, the importance of open-minded attitude was emphasized. Reception centre experience improved role clarity, while educational background showed no effect; qualitative findings identified experienced public health nurses as the best fit. Conclusion The competence of reception center nurses consists of a strong knowledge base and a broad range of skills. To enhance the implementation of the revised initial health assessment, targeted skills training and support are needed. The findings of this study can be used to inform nurse training and guide the planning of health services for asylum seekers. Keywords Competence, asylum seekers, initial health assessment, nurses, nursing, implementation, behavior.