Evaluating the impact of a continuing education program on change in gerontologic nursing practice

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Nursing Education

Background:

• Continuing education is crucial for updating nurses' skills in gerontologic care.
• Acute hospital settings present unique challenges for implementing evidence-based practices for older adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe behavior changes reported by nurses post-continuing education on gerontologic nursing.
• To identify factors influencing the implementation of practice changes in acute care.

Main Methods:

• Descriptive analysis of qualitative responses from nurses attending a continuing education program.
• Focus on self-reported behavior changes and perceived barriers.

Main Results:

• Nurses reported increased knowledge and willingness to change practice.
• Environmental and administrative factors were identified as significant barriers to implementing new practices.
• Positive reflection on knowledge acquisition did not directly translate to practice change.

Conclusions:

• Continuing education programs can enhance nurses' knowledge of gerontologic care.
• Organizational and environmental factors significantly impede the translation of learning into practice.
• Strategies are recommended to overcome barriers and maximize the impact of continuing education on nursing care for the aged client.