The Association Between new Nurses’ Gerontological Education, Personal Attitudes Toward Older Adults, and Intentions to Work in Gerontological Care Settings in Ontario, Canada

Abstract

Background The older adult population in Canada is increasing, and many will require care within an acute geriatric unit (AGU) or long-term care facility (LTCF). However, the nursing workforce is not growing at the same pace as the population is aging. New graduate nurses may be able to fill this gap; therefore, it is important to understand their intentions of working in gerontological care settings (i.e., AGU or LTCF). Aim To examine if nursing education and personal attitudes toward older adults influence newly registered nurses’(RNs) intentions to work in a gerontological care setting. Method Nurses (n= 1,103) who registered with the College of Nurses of Ontario for the first time in 2018 were invited to complete a questionnaire. Results The majority of participants (n = 181) reported a positive attitude toward older adults. However, only 14% reported an intention to work in a gerontological care setting. Participants who completed multiple geriatric focused clinical placements were more likely to report an intention to work in these settings. Conclusion This study provides some information regarding the attitudes and intentions of newly RNs toward a career in gerontological care settings. Further research is needed to understand nurses’ intentions regarding working in AGUs or LTCFs.

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