Competencies relevant for gerontological nursing: Focus-group interviews with professionals in the nursing of older people

Abstract

Older people are present in a variety of nursing settings and have distinct care needs. Evidence about the competencies required is crucial when developing the profession. The aim of the study was to describe competence areas relevant in gerontological nursing. A qualitative, descriptive study design was used with 27 participants included. Finnish gerontological nursing professionals who worked at several healthcare organizations and in education were interviewed in five focus-group interviews. The interviews were carried out between October 2017 and February 2018 and were analyzed using inductive content analysis. The study is reported according to SRQR guidelines. Analysis indicated four main competence areas for gerontological nursing: clinical nursing competence; competence in promoting health and well-being; interaction competence; and ethical competence. Registered nurses (RNs) must possess multiple competencies when caring for older people which should be taken into account in nursing and education.