Knowledge, attitude and practice of practical nurses in selected parishes in Jamaica

The knowledge attitude and practice of Practical Nurses who cared for elderly clients were studied over an eight weeks period in selected parishes in Jamaica. In the study all the respondents were females in age range 20 to 59 years. Most of the respondents were single and the highest numbers attained the Seconday School education standard. The highest numbers of respondents were qualified at the Jamaica School Certificate (J.S.C.)level. Approximatley 81.0 percent of the respondents were trained as Practical Nurses. Twenty-five different Practical Nursing Schools were responsible for the training of the Practical Nurses. Their hours of theory and practical experiences varied from individual to individual as also the duration of their training. Most respondents had good knowledge base and their attitude towards caring for the elderly clients were also good. Most of the respondents were motivated to care for the elderly clients by the level of nursing education they attained, while others were motivated by the job itself. There is need of development or improvement of curriculum for the training of Practical Nurses and a definite policy towards the regulation of the training which should ultimatley lead to licensure and registration by the Nursing Council of Jamaica (AU)

Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique: country report

The report covers the activities of the Grenada Nursing Services for the period June 1994 to May 1995. States that the Nursing Services continue to provide quality care to patients/clients despite limited working conditions in relation to physical facilities, equipment, supplies and staff. An update is provided on human resource developments, nursing evaluation and statistical data on the nursing service island-wide

Grenada, Carriacou and Petit Martinique

Reports on the administrative aspects of the nursing service. Outlines local action on resolutions issued from the Thirteenth Meeting of the Conference of Ministers Responsible for Health. Technical assistance received from external agencies is summarised, followed by an update of development in nursing administration and training. Some of the current problems faced is as a result of inadequate trained staff, sub-standard working conditions and the absence of a hospital policy. There is need for improved top and middle management personnel and educational opportunities in the form of scholarships for nurses, among others