Exploring Certified Nursing Assistants' Perceived Needs and Technology Access in Mental Health Self-Care Training:...

This study aimed to examine the interest of certified nursing assistants (CNAs) in self-care mental health (MH) training, the characteristics associated with this interest, and their level of technology access to participate in online training.

We conducted a secondary analysis of a cross-sectional telephone survey of CNAs fielded in 2020.

A total of 195 CNAs aged 18 and older employed across 98 licensed skilled nursing facilities in New York.

Our team developed survey instruments and first piloted them with direct care workers and community partners. Novel measures included CNAs' self-reported interests, perceived needs, and preferences regarding MH training and access to technology. We performed bivariate analyses to examine the association between CNAs' MH interests and their sociodemographic characteristics, health, caregiving roles and duties, and emotional well-being.

More than three-quarters of CNAs (75.4%) in our sample expressed interest in MH training. Compared with those with no interest, CNAs interested in MH training were significantly more likely to be double- or triple-duty caregivers (ie, those caring for dependent children and/or older family members) (P < .001). There was also a wide range of technology access across different devices among CNAs interested in MH training. Although most have access to devices that could enable them to receive potential MH training, 16.3% reported lacking the necessary technology in their homes to participate. CNAs who reported a lack of technology access were significantly older (P = .034), had less education (P = .031), and had more years of experience in the health care field (P = .034).

Most CNAs welcome MH training, although access to technology to obtain such virtual training varies. Addressing CNA MH through increased training could play a critical role in supporting their well-being and enhancing their ability to provide quality care both at work and at home. Strategies to address uptake and dissemination are urgently needed.