Creating a Dedicated Education Unit in Long-Term Care.

The number of older adults needing long-term care (LTC) may rise in future aging populations, necessitating an increase in the <1% of nurses currently certified in gerontological nursing. An innovative clinical model, the dedicated education unit (DEU), has been used globally with positive results. The purpose of the current review is to explore the DEU and its possible use in LTC settings, and identify if this clinical model increases nursing students' knowledge of the nursing role. Current literature, including a systematic review, is analyzed and rated for quality. Synthesis of findings show the DEU clinical model may increase student interest and knowledge of LTC nursing through collaboration with the practicing LTC nurse. More longitudinal studies are needed to determine the success of the DEU model as a long-term solution to this clinical problem. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 43 (5), 23-29.].

Educational strategies to promote professional nursing in long-term care. An integrative review.

This integrative review investigates various strategies in professional nursing education that facilitate positive attitudes toward working with older adults in long-term care (LTC) environments, including nursing homes. Nine studies contained strategies that increased positive attitudes of nurses towards older adults. The barrier most frequently identified is lack of gerontological knowledge by faculty and students, suggesting increased knowledge in faculty may ensure that older adults receive quality care. Early introduction of students to people who are aging successfully may dispel bias against older adults. Lack of current nursing role models in LTC settings may reinforce negative stereotypes.

Potential food-drug interactions in long-term care.

Medication administration at mealtimes may result in food-drug interactions. Older adults are especially at risk of food-drug interactions leading to adverse drug effects and subtherapeutic responses. Research on potential food-drug interactions is limited and dated. This study examined the frequency of potential food-drug interactions in long-term care. Forty-nine percent of drugs administered at mealtimes had potential for interaction, with cardiovascular medications given most frequently. The frequency of potential interactions makes this phenomenon critically important to review. Collaboration between nurses and pharmacists may identify optimal medication scheduling. Nurses can enhance care by identifying strategies to limit interactions through knowledge and creative, collaborative administration schedules.