Abstract
There is a need of nurses with special training in paediatric care. A one-year traineeprogram was therefore established at a university hospital in Western Sweden in order to offer extended knowledge and practical training in paediatric care to newly graduate nurses. Nineteen nurses were accepted to join the traineeprogram, which was conducted using the techniques of problem based learning during the theoretical as well as the practical part. The program was evaluated by questioning the nurses of their objective of joining the program, how this was fulfilled, gained insight and professional development by the use of a semi-structured questionnaire. The result showed that the nurses experienced a professional development regarding essential theoretical knowledge in paediatric care consolidated in practical medical and caring skills. In addition the traineeprogram facilitated their social adaptation to hospital routines, supported their self-confidence, independence, and their professional role in the team.