Perceptions of training for care attendants employed in the care of older people

Care attendants, have long assisted nurses in the provision of care for older people in a variety of care settings in Ireland. While there has been recent interest in the provision of formal training for this grade of health care worker the majority remain untrained and unregulated.

This paper describes a study undertaken to explore the perceptions of nurses and care attendants regarding the provision of formal training for care attendants employed in the care of the older people in southern Ireland. The aim was to identify through empirical research, the perceived implications of this training on the role of both nurses and care attendants.

A qualitative research design was used to afford each set of respondents the opportunity to express their thoughts and concerns. The research sites were two settings providing long-term care for older people. The research sample nurses (n = 40) and care attendants (n = 40). Data was derived through the use of two research instruments, focus group discussion and a questionnaire containing open-ended questions. Themes were extracted from the data using content analysis.

The study identifies positive attitudes towards training for care attendants by both nurses and care attendants but also a perceived link between the provision of training and a blurring of role boundaries. In addition, findings disclose that although nurses are positively disposed to the training of care attendants, this is not accompanied by a desire to become actively involved.

The study indicates a positive view of training for care attendants, also highlighting the importance of role clarification. Results are particularly relevant in the present climate of demographic change, changes in nurse education and staff shortages in Ireland.