Assessment of geriatric knowledge: an online tool for appraising entering APN students

As the percentage of elderly in the U.S. rises, the need for primary health care for the aging population increases. Knowledge of special characteristics of older persons, as well as demographics of the aging population, resources and principles of care are important in the provision of effective, professional primary health care by advanced practice nurses. In response to this increasing need for geriatric health care expertise, a tool was developed to evaluate basic geriatric knowledge of students entering advanced practice nursing study, Self Assessment of Geriatric Knowledge. The Self Assessment, derived from AACN's recommended geriatric competencies for BSN graduates, may be accessed on-line. Immediate test results are received on-line. Tests completed by 158 advanced practice students over a three year period showed geriatric knowledge deficits: myths of aging, prevention strategies and risk factors of elders; roles and responsibilities for care of elderly persons in the community; health policies that affect elder care; and, demographics of the geriatric population. These data may contribute to faculty awareness of curricular needs for preparing students for competent geriatric nursing care of the growing older population.