Integrating gerontological content across advanced practice registered nurse programs.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Faculty members across the country are faced with integrating gerontological content and competencies across advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) programs that focus on the adult-gerontology population. The purpose of this initiative was to effectively and efficiently integrate gerontological content into the adult management courses for several APRN programs in acute and primary care at one university's college of nursing. DATA SOURCES Current literature, resources for integrating adult-gerontology content, course evaluations, and end of program surveys were used in this project. CONCLUSION: This curricular update effectively utilized resources and engaged faculty across programs to infuse gerontological content into the adult management courses. Students from multiple programs sharing these courses benefited from gerontological lecturers, content, and learning activities. The content gaps were integrated into existing courses rather than developing a new course. Current outcome data reflect this was an effective curricular change. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE In conjunction with meeting national requirements for integrating adult-gerontology content into APRN curriculum, APRNs prepared with enhanced gerontological knowledge and skills build a workforce that is competent to improve care for older adults across the continuum of care.