Bringing caring and competence into focus in gerontological nursing: a longitudinal, multi-method study.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Quality

Background:

• Caring is devalued in healthcare systems prioritizing cure.
• This trend particularly impacts gerontological nursing, where cure is often not feasible.
• Negative perceptions of working with older people are reinforced during student placements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To longitudinally explore student experiences during placements.
• To identify characteristics of 'enriched' care environments that foster positive views of gerontological nursing.

Main Methods:

• A multi-method longitudinal study with a constructivist approach.
• Involved 57 focus groups over 3 years across four nursing schools in England.
• Included site visits to 33 placement areas and in-depth study of seven.

Main Results:

• A temporal model of student placement experience was developed, with five 'foci' identified: self, course, professional care, patient, and person.
• Achieving 'person as focus' depends on mentor input and exposure to enriched care environments.
• The 'senses framework' helps understand enriched environments.

Conclusions:

• Placement experiences can be enhanced to create a positive view of gerontological nursing.
• Practical strategies for creating enriched learning environments are identified.
• Students can learn to value care as much as cure through enhanced placements.