Effect of Volunteer Management Based on the PEP Model on the Competence, Motivation, and Retention of Nursing Students: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract Background: Voluntary activities are an emerging form of nursing education. Managing voluntary activities under a clear model can make students volunteering activities effective by creating a favorable work environment. The PEP (Personal Preparation, Engagement, and Program Perpetuation) model helps to recruit, maximize the potential of volunteers, and improve their readiness and retention. In Iran, no studies have been conducted in the field of management of voluntary activities of medical and nursing students based on volunteering management models. This study aimed to determine the effect of volunteer activity management based on the PEP model on volunteer nursing students' clinical competence, motivation, and retention. Methods: This randomized clinical trial was performed on 127 third and fourth-year undergraduate nursing students in Qom University of Medical Sciences. Volunteers were allocated to intervention (n= 42), active control (n= 43), and control (n= 42) groups using block randomization. The intervention group’s activities were guided by the PEP model, while the active control group followed traditional management practices, and the control group received no intervention. Outcomes were assessed using validated scales (Volunteer Function Inventory, Nurse Competence Scale, and the volunteers' willingness to continue volunteer activities questionnaire). The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, one-way ANOVA, paired t-tests, Friedman tests, and covariance analysis. Results: managing volunteer activities based on the PEP model had a significant effect on volunteer motivation (F=9.981, P<0.001, PES= 0.140) and its dimensions, especially personal growth (F=15.11, P<0.001, PES=0.198), clinical competence (F=18.144, P<0.001, PES= 0.228), and the willingness to continue volunteer activities of volunteers (p<0.001). Conclusions: Implementation the PEP model in managing volunteer activities can promote volunteer motivation, clinical competence, and retention. This study present implementation plan for the PEP model, so recommended for managing volunteer in nursing education. Trial registration The study was registered by the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials with decree code: IRCT20221227056948N1 on 17-01-2023. (https://irct.behdasht.gov.ir/trail/67710)