Exploring the perceptions of practical nursing students on caring for the older person

Abstract Objectives This study assessed the perceptions of Practical Nursing (PN) students around caring for the elderly and how these attitudes were related to PN students’ socio-demographics and other characteristics. Methods Cross-sectional study with data analyzed at a single point in time. Results A majority of respondents (63 %) identified specialized geriatric courses, and 62 % highlighted expert instructors, as beneficial in shaping perceptions of caring for the elderly. The mean Burbank’s scores of the PN students and new graduates indicated a positive perspective towards care and their scores were impacted by age and work experience, not by gender, or education years. Conclusions The development of specialized gerontology and related courses to improve students’ perceptions of caring for older people may be useful. Implications for an international audience Further international research work to expand findings is required.