Predictors of quality of care provided for older adults

Abstract

Background: The work conditions in which the nurses provide care for older adults affect the quality of care.

Study aim: (a) To describe the quality of care for older adults as perceived by the nurse; (b) to examine the relationship between occupational stress, work climate, employee development and quality of care for older people; and (c) to determine the predictors of quality of care provided for older adults.

Methods: A descriptive correlational design was used in this study. A multi-strategic sampling technique was used to recruit a sample of 500 nurses providing care for older adults in hospitals and health care centres.

Results: Almost 80% of the participating nurses reported that their workplace was insufficiently staffed. Quality of care was significantly associated with occupational stress, nurses' competence and employee development. Significant predictors of quality of care were occupational stress, work climate and employee development.

Conclusion: Enhancing nurses' work climate, decreasing occupational stress and increasing chances for employee development would improve the quality of care provided for older adults.

Implications for nursing management: Health institutions have the opportunity to implement work environment improvements that increase support for advancing staff knowledge and skills by providing additional support for continuing education regarding the care of older adults.

Keywords: nurses' competence; older adults; psychosocial work environment; quality of care; work conditions.