Enhancing Student Nurses’ Clinical Education in Aged Care Homes: A Qualitative Study of Challenges Perceived by Faculty Staff

Abstract Background: The ageing population is increasing the demand for geriatric care services. As nursing schools respond to this demand, more clinical placements are required, and aged care homes are suitable placement sites. Although an aged care experience for students is beneficial, the basis for effective implementation of these placements is yet to be fully established. The aim of this study was to explore faculty staff perspectives on the challenges associated with providing clinical education in aged care homes to first-year student nurses.Methods: An exploratory qualitative study was conducted using in-depth interviews (n=15) with program leaders of nurse bachelor programs (n=4), course leaders (n=6) and practice coordinators (n=5) in three Norwegian universities. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The standards for Reporting of Qualitative Research (SRQR) checklist were used to report the findings. Results: Five themes describe the perceived challenges to implementing clinical education in aged care homes: (1) the staffing model limits capacity to host students; (2) prevalence of part-time teachers can compromise the quality of students’ learning experiences; (3) tension about required qualifications and competence exist; (4) variation in learning assessments; and (5) lack of quality assurance. Conclusions: These challenges signal key areas for attention in quality assurance for aged care placements. Further research into the minimum levels of staffing required to support student learning in the aged care setting is required. Methods for developing shared practices around facilitation of learning in aged care homes is required to address the preference for part-time teaching appointments. Further research into the levels of qualification and competence required to support student learning can assist with setting standards for this sector. Finally, academic-practice institutions must engage with bureaucrats and national nursing bodies to develop national standards for clinical education in aged care homes.