The Future History of Gerontological Nursing

Abstract

Having established an academic and clinical infrastructure, geriatric nursing is well positioned to play a central role in improving the health of the nation's older adults now and in the future. Currently, whether working independently, in collaborative practice with physicians, or as members of geriatric teams, geriatric nurse practitioners and clinical specialists have been shown to improve care to older adults in the community, in hospitals, and in skilled nursing facilities. Sixty-three master's programs now prepare advanced practice geriatric nurses. Geriatric nurse researchers have contributed to our understanding of the most pressing problems that impact profoundly on the health and quality of life of older adults. Despite these advances, the number of geriatric nurse specialists remains small, with only 4200 certified specialists and a serious shortage of geriatric nursing faculty. Geriatric nursing is moving to ensure geriatric competency in all nurses who work with older adults in the future. The future should see the benefits of current efforts to infuse geriatric content into baccalaureate programs that prepare registered nurses, into master's programs that prepare adult and family nurse practitioners, and into the day-to-day practice of the nation's 2.2 million practicing registered nurses.

Effective nursing leadership of older persons in the community – a systematic review

“…The findings show that collaboration, communication and networks have been identified as important aspects of nursing leadership and management, a conclusion supported by Mezey and Fulmer (). Concern could be related to confusion about the scope of the role and poor role definition.…”

Japanese nurse practitioner practice and outcomes in a nursing home

“…Geriatric nursing plays a crucial role in coping with the pressing health problems of older people (Mezey & Fulmer ). A geriatric nursing home represents an important facet of geriatric nursing care.…”

Strategies to Advance Geriatric Nursing: The John A. Hartford Foundation Initiatives

“…There is clear evidence that thoughtful deployment of well‐trained nurses can improve older adults' care 14,15 . Increasing in numbers each day, older adults constitute the segment of the population that enjoys the greatest benefit from care and system improvements and is most vulnerable to medical mistakes.…”

“…There is clear evidence that thoughtful deployment of welltrained nurses can improve older adults' care. 14,15 Increasing in numbers each day, older adults constitute the segment of the population that enjoys the greatest benefit from care and system improvements and is most vulnerable to medical mistakes. The initiatives and strategy described above are a first step being taken by the Foundation to increase the availability of well-trained nurses, who are key agents in the provision of health care and its coordination on behalf of older adults.…”