Overview
Many in the nursing profession would argue that there is a significant shortage of gerontological nurses. This observation is startling considering the National Institute on Health reports a “gerontological explosion” of older adults in the United States and around the world. Gerontological nursing is an often-neglected area in basic nursing education. In this discussion topic, we will look at the reasons why gerontological nursing is an underserved area of practice.
After reading and viewing the required instructional materials, draft a response to the following questions:
1. What does the term “gerontological nurse” mean to you?
2. Why do you think so few students choose gerontological nursing as a specialty?
3. What would increase interest in this area of nursing?
4. What is the relationship between A Profile of Older Americans: 2016 and the ANA Standards and Scope of Practice Nursing?
Your initial post must be posted before you can view and respond to colleagues, must contain minimum of two (2) references, in addition to examples from your personal experiences to augment the topic. The goal is to make your post interesting and engaging so others will want to read/respond to it. Synthesize and summarize from your resources in order to avoid the use of direct quotes, which can often be dry and boring. No direct quotes are allowed in the discussion board posts.
References:
- Initial Post: Minimum of two (2) total references: one (1) from required course materials and one (1) from peer-reviewed references.
Words Limits
- Initial Post: Minimum 200 words excluding references (approximately one (1) page)
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
As a medical professor, I understand the importance of nurturing individuals to become healthcare practitioners who are capable of providing quality care to all age groups. Gerontological nursing is a vital area of practice that is often overlooked by students in their careers. This discussion will focus on the reasons for this trend and the possible solutions.
1. What does the term “gerontological nurse” mean to you?
To me, a gerontological nurse is a healthcare practitioner who specializes in providing comprehensive care to elderly individuals and their families. This includes managing medical illnesses, providing palliative care, and enhancing the well-being of geriatric patients.
2. Why do you think so few students choose gerontological nursing as a specialty?
One possible reason for the shortage of gerontological nurses is the lack of exposure to geriatric care during clinical rotations and nursing education. Additionally, the responsibility of caring for older adults can be challenging, emotionally draining, and demanding, which may deter some students from pursuing this specialty.
3. What would increase interest in this area of nursing?
To increase interest in gerontological nursing, nursing programs should include a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes geriatric care. Additionally, nursing schools could provide students with clinical rotations in nursing homes, geriatric care centers, and home-based settings. These experiences create opportunities for students to observe care, work alongside geriatric nurses, and understand the complexities of gerontological nursing.
4. What is the relationship between A Profile of Older Americans: 2016 and the ANA Standards and Scope of Practice Nursing?
A Profile of Older Americans: 2016 report highlights the demographic shift where there is a rise in the number of aging population, which necessitates healthcare practitioners capable of managing their care effectively. The ANA Standards and Scope of Practice Nursing are a set of guidelines that outline the professional and ethical responsibilities for nurses across different fields, including gerontological nursing. These standards address the need for nurses to provide effective and holistic patient care across all age groups.
In conclusion, it is essential to address the shortage of gerontological nurses by raising awareness, providing effective educational programs, and promoting geriatric care. Gerontological nursing is an excellent opportunity for medical students to have a significant impact on the care of older adults and their families, and we need to encourage more students to become gerontological nurses.
