An Evaluation of Nurses’ Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Geriatric Care at Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo
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Background of the Study
The aging population is increasing globally, with the United Nations (2024) estimating that by 2050, people aged 60 and above will make up over 22% of the world’s population. In Nigeria, the proportion of elderly individuals is growing, leading to a rising demand for specialized healthcare services tailored to their needs. However, geriatric care remains underdeveloped in many Nigerian healthcare institutions due to a lack of specialized training, inadequate healthcare policies, and limited resources (Okeke et al., 2024). Nurses play a crucial role in geriatric care, as they are often the primary caregivers for elderly patients who require long-term management for chronic illnesses, mobility support, and end-of-life care.
At the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jalingo, nurses are frequently tasked with managing elderly patients, yet studies suggest that many nurses have limited knowledge of geriatric care and may hold negative attitudes toward aging patients (Adebayo & Yusuf, 2023). These gaps in knowledge and attitudes can significantly impact the quality of care provided to older adults, leading to increased hospitalizations, complications, and reduced patient satisfaction.
Despite the importance of geriatric nursing, there is little emphasis on specialized training in most nursing curricula in Nigeria. Additionally, cultural perceptions about aging may influence nurses' attitudes towards elderly patients, potentially affecting the standard of care delivered. This study seeks to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of nurses at FMC, Jalingo, towards geriatric care, identify areas for improvement, and recommend strategies for enhancing the quality of elderly patient care.
Statement of the Problem
Geriatric care is a critical but often neglected aspect of healthcare in Nigeria. Studies indicate that many nurses lack sufficient knowledge and training in elderly care, which affects their ability to manage geriatric conditions effectively (Ogunleye et al., 2024). At FMC, Jalingo, where elderly patients make up a significant proportion of hospital admissions, it is essential to assess the competency and attitudes of nurses toward geriatric care.
Negative attitudes towards aging and misconceptions about the elderly can lead to suboptimal care, delayed interventions, and reduced patient dignity. Research suggests that some nurses perceive geriatric care as less rewarding compared to other fields, which may affect their motivation to provide high-quality care (Bello et al., 2023). Furthermore, the absence of structured geriatric training programs for nurses exacerbates the issue.
If nurses lack adequate knowledge and hold unfavorable attitudes toward elderly patients, the overall quality of care provided to this vulnerable population will suffer. This study aims to assess the level of nurses' knowledge and attitudes toward geriatric care at FMC, Jalingo, with the goal of recommending strategies to improve elderly patient management.
Objectives of the Study
- To evaluate the level of nurses’ knowledge of geriatric care at FMC, Jalingo.
- To assess nurses' attitudes toward elderly patients and their care.
- To recommend strategies for improving nurses' competency and attitudes in geriatric care.
Research Questions
- What is the level of nurses’ knowledge of geriatric care at FMC, Jalingo?
- How do nurses perceive and approach the care of elderly patients?
- What interventions can improve nurses’ knowledge and attitudes toward geriatric care?
Research Hypotheses
- Nurses with higher knowledge of geriatric care provide better elderly patient care than those with lower knowledge.
- Negative attitudes towards aging significantly impact the quality of geriatric care provided by nurses.
- Geriatric training programs will significantly improve nurses' knowledge and attitudes toward elderly care.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on nurses working at FMC, Jalingo, and their knowledge and attitudes toward geriatric care. Limitations may include reluctance from some nurses to participate in the study and potential bias in self-reported attitudes.
Definitions of Terms
- Geriatric Care – Specialized medical and nursing care aimed at managing the health needs of elderly patients.
- Attitudes Towards Aging – The perceptions and beliefs that individuals hold about the elderly and the aging process.
- Geriatric Training – Educational programs designed to improve healthcare providers’ knowledge of elderly care.
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