Understanding the Role of Assistant Nurses in Nursing Homes

The Challenge

Assistant nurses (ANs) are vital in caring for older adults in nursing homes. However, a significant issue persists:

• Lack of Knowledge: Many ANs lack sufficient understanding of medicines and related health issues.
• Potential Consequences: This knowledge gap can lead to serious problems for the residents they care for.

The Study

A recent study aimed to explore:

1. ANs' Role: How ANs perceive their role in preventing drug-related problems (DRPs).
2. Self-Assessment: ANs' views on their own knowledge of medicines and the health issues of older adults.
3. Future Education: The type of medical education ANs desire for the future.

Key Findings

• Perceived Importance: ANs feel they are crucial in identifying and preventing DRPs, acting as the eyes and ears of the nursing staff.
• Knowledge Gap: Despite their importance, ANs feel they lack adequate knowledge about medicines and the health problems of older adults.
• Risk of Mistakes: This lack of knowledge can result in medication errors, potentially harming residents.
• Desire for Education: ANs express a strong need for more education on medicines and the care of older adults.
• Collaboration: ANs want to work more closely with nurses, enabling them to discuss and address potential DRPs before they escalate.

Conclusion

The study highlights the critical role of ANs in preventing DRPs and the urgent need for enhanced education and collaboration to ensure the safety and well-being of nursing home residents.