Improving aged care education for Australian rural nurses using problem-based learning

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Geriatric Care
• Problem-Based Learning

Background:

• A continuing education program was designed for aged care nurses using problem-based learning (PBL).
• The program aimed to enhance understanding of aged care guidelines, application in practice, and confidence in initiating workplace changes.
• Key components included a guided introduction to PBL and the use of reflective journals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a PBL-based continuing education program for aged care nurses.
• To assess improvements in nurses' knowledge of aged care guidelines and their ability to apply this knowledge.
• To foster confidence and strategies for nurses to implement changes in their practice settings.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was employed for program evaluation.
• Data collection involved participant observation during case scenarios, journal entries, and pre- and post-program questionnaires.
• The study included fifteen participating nurses.

Main Results:

• Participants adopted a holistic approach to aged care.
• Nurses demonstrated reflection on their practice through journal writing.
• Participants gained a comprehensive understanding of current aged care guidelines and developed skills, strategies, and motivation for workplace change.

Conclusions:

• Problem-based learning (PBL) successfully facilitated the integration of theoretical knowledge with practical application for nurses.
• The use of reflective journals and a guided PBL introduction were critical to the program's success.
• The program empowered nurses to link theory with practice and drive improvements in aged care settings.