This study has a purpose to devise an education program in relation to Gerontology and geriatrics applicable to Korean nurses through literature review and analysis of education programs utilized by the Geriatric Education Centers (GECs) of USA.
Educational contents on gerontology and geriatrics are very diverse in precedent literatures. The education programs of GECs for health care personnel are equally very diverse. Among educational contents, subjects considered important are age-related changes, health problems of the aged, pharmacology, death, fall and osteoporosis, delirium, dementia, depression, urinary incontinence, communication with elderly. Methods used in education program are mainly seminar, workshop and lecture through internet. In addition, case study, small-group discussion and conference are also adopted.
The program proposed in this study for nurses in relation to gerontology and geriatrics consists of 32 hours´ education; 6 hours for age-related changes, 10 hours for health problems of the elderly, 14 hours for health problems in old age and 2 hours of communication technique. Educational method proposed is to utilize lecture through internet, direct education, workshop, practical exercise, case study and role play in parallel.
This study proposed an education program on the basis of precedent literature and the program of GECs. Therefore, it is desirable to develop in the future more practical education program applicable to and required in practicing fields. Of course, this development needs to be based on nurses´ educational needs by field in relation to gerontology and geriatrics.
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