| Learning Objective #1: Describe the knowledge level of nursing assistants in the provision of care related to the prevention and delegate care related to pressure ulcers | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Identify potential gaps in the continuity of care and the educational needs of nursing assistants to address these learning needs |
Objective: Pressure ulcers are common, debilitating conditions with a prevalence of more than 10% across acute, long-term care and home care settings and as high as 60% in high risk patients. The purpose of this study was to examine the knowledge of pressure ulcer prevention and care among Licensed Nursing Assistants (LNAs) in New Hampshire. Design: The design of this descriptive study utilized survey methods using a random sample of LNAs’ names obtained from the New Hampshire Board of Nursing. Participants were mailed a researcher-developed questionnaire consisting of 22 questions derived from two previously utilized instruments that assessed knowledge of pressure ulcer risks. A panel of experts established face and content validity and it was then pilot-tested by LNAs for ease of completion and understandability. Concept or Variables Studied Together: The variables of interest were knowledge level, educational needs, specific aspects of pressure ulcer development, and treatment. Methods: The survey was mailed to 400 LNAs with a follow-up postcard reminder. Data analysis is ongoing, but will be completed by April 2003. Findings: Results will be reported using descriptive statistics. Total knowledge scores will be analyzed and compared to years of practice, type of work setting, location of nursing assistant course, age, and education level. Educational needs will be categorized and reported as group data. Conclusions: Preliminary data analysis suggests that LNAs in NH do not have the knowledge required to effectively prevent pressure ulcer development or provide delegated care. Critical educational gaps appear to exist related to the competence of LNAs in pressure ulcer prevention and treatment. Implications: These findings will provide helpful insights into the educational needs and curriculum format for LNAs to ensure the continuity of care. This study needs to be replicated in other states and clinical settings to determine educational needs as well as baseline knowledge.
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