Role Performance and Associated Factors Among Gerontological Nurse Specialists in China: A Cross-Sectional Study

To clarify the role performance of gerontological nurse specialists (GNSs) and identify associated factors.

A cross-sectional survey.

A self-designed questionnaire based on the Donabedian model was developed to assess structure, process, and outcome variables using a 5-point Likert scale. The questionnaire was administered to 230 GNSs. Descriptive statistics (e.g., means, standard deviations, frequencies) were calculated in SPSS to summarise GNSs' role performance, and multiple regression analysis identified factors influencing GNSs' role performance.

Ninety-six GNSs (response rate of 44.3%) scored 3.15 to 3.81 out of 5 in GNSs' role performance, including clinical practice, education and guidance, consultation, research, leadership and coordination. High self-ratings were observed in clinical practice and consultation, whereas research and leadership scored lower. Education and guidance, as well as consultation, were primarily performed among hospital nurses, with GNSs' role performance largely confined to the hospital. Multiple regression revealed that GNSs' role performance was significantly associated with factors such as GNS competency, identification of stakeholder needs and perceived social recognition of GNS.

To enhance the role performance of GNSs, it is necessary to expand their activities outside the hospital, improve gerontological nursing competency, and promote the social recognition of their role. The results also suggest that it is important for GNSs to understand the needs of patients, nurses, and other related healthcare workers, and enhance collaboration with multiple professionals.

Clarifying the role performance of GNSs in China enables future outcome evaluations. Identifying influencing factors provides insights for effective support, which will further contribute to the success and development of GNSs.

No public or patient involvement.