An educational approach for patient-focused care. Shifting attitudes and practice

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Nursing Education

Background:

• Effective continuing education is crucial for updating nursing practice.
• Attitudes towards geriatric care significantly impact patient outcomes.
• Patient-centered care models emphasize patient autonomy and preferences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a continuing education course for nurses focused on geriatric care.
• To foster positive changes in nurses' attitudes towards caring for older adults.
• To promote a patient-directed care approach by realigning nurses' value priorities.

Main Methods:

• The study involved the development and implementation of a specialized continuing education program.
• Nurses participated in dialogues concerning aging and patient-centered care principles.
• An alternative nurse-patient interaction model, with the patient as leader, was introduced.

Main Results:

• Evaluations indicated positive outcomes for the participating nurses.
• The course positively influenced the perceived quality of care provided to older patients.
• Nurses reported a shift towards prioritizing patient concerns, needs, and wishes.

Conclusions:

• The continuing education course was effective in modifying nurses' attitudes and practice priorities.
• Implementing patient-led care models can enhance the nurse-patient relationship and care quality.
• This educational intervention demonstrates a successful strategy for improving geriatric nursing care.