Effect of a Geriatric Nurse Education Program on the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Certification of Hospital Nurses

Moreen Donahue, Meredith Wallace Kazer, Lisa Smith, Joyce J. Fitzpatrick

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Although nurses are the primary care providers for hospitalized and vulnerable older adults living in the community, they are generally not prepared in geriatric care. This study examined the effect of a 21-hour nursing education program on nurses’ knowledge and attitudes regarding care of older adults and the geriatric nursing certification of the participants. The program was offered to 92 nurses in three cohorts over a 1-year period. Participants completed pre- and posttest measures of geriatric knowledge and attitudes. Significant differences were found between pretest and posttest knowledge and attitudes. Program evaluation and success in achieving certification in gerontological nursing also indicated a positive effect of the program.

Original languageAmerican English
JournalJournal of Continuing Education in Nursing
Volume42
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2011

Disciplines

  • Medicine and Health Sciences
  • Nursing

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