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Providing meaningful continuing education in a changing long-term care environment
Joyce Tryssenaar1, Heather Gray
1McMaster University, School of Rehabilitation Science, Hamilton, ON, Canada. tryssen@mcmaster.ca
Summary
This study implemented a brief continuing education program for all staff in long-term care facilities to improve attitudes toward depression. The program fostered cross-disciplinary learning and a shared language of care, proving adaptable for various educational needs.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Healthcare Education
- Mental Health Services
Background:
- Long-term care facilities require effective continuing education for staff.
- Addressing staff attitudes towards depression is crucial for quality patient care.
- A standardized approach to education can enhance interdisciplinary communication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the implementation of an innovative continuing education program.
- To facilitate attitude change regarding depression among long-term care staff.
- To promote cross-discipline learning and a common language of care.
Main Methods:
- Delivery of brief, 30-minute teaching sessions.
- Utilized diverse techniques including lectures and storytelling.
- Program targeted all staff within long-term care facilities in Thunder Bay, Ontario.
Main Results:
- Successfully delivered continuing education to all staff.
- Fostered cross-discipline learning and a common language of care.
- The program format proved easy to use and adaptable.
Conclusions:
- Innovative continuing education can effectively change staff attitudes about depression.
- Involving all staff enhances learning and communication within facilities.
- The program's format is versatile for various continuing education topics.