Comparisons of knowledge of Dutch nursing students and hospital nurses on aging

Abstract

Background: Although there is a growing population of older adults admitted to hospitals, the literature demonstrates knowledge deficits of nurses regarding older patients. This study investigated knowledge levels of both nursing students and RNs about older hospitalized patients in relation to their educational level and work experience. Method: First- and final-year vocational and bachelor nursing students, and associate degree and bachelor degree nurses working in the hospital setting with 0 to 5 years, 6 to 15 years, and more than 15 years of experience, have completed the Knowledge about Older Patients–Quiz (KOP-Q). The KOP-Q has a clearly described theoretical base finding its origin in knowledge regarding nursing care for older patients and shows good content and construct validity. Results: A substantial proportion of participants in all groups demonstrated insufficient knowledge about older patients. A difference in knowledge exists among nurses with different educational qualifications, and a link between years of experience and higher knowledge levels of nurses is found. Conclusion: Throughout the nursing career, basic care topics in relation to care for older patients should play a key role in basic nursing education programs, as well as for continuing education programs provided in hospitals for nurses.