J Korean Acad Nurs.  2010 Dec;40(6):872-881. 10.4040/jkan.2010.40.6.872.

Evaluation of the Korean Formal Educational Program for Training Care Workers for Frail Elderly

• Yi YJ
• Kang HS
• Kwon SB
• Kim JH
• Park YS
• Son HM
• Lee EH
• Lim NY
• Cho KS
• Han HJ

• KMID: 999489
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4040/jkan.2010.40.6.872

Abstract

PURPOSE
This study was done to evaluate the formal education program provided by the Korean government for care workers for frail elderly people.
METHODS
This study was a cross-sectional survey in which 438 certified care workers who had completed the education program participated. Data were collected from June to October 2009, using a self-report questionnaire consisting of satisfaction with, and understanding of the education program.
RESULTS
The participants had a mean age of 46.7 yr, 87.9% were female and 58.2% were high school graduates. For the theory part of the education, the highest score for understanding was for 'supporting household & activities of daily living' while the lowest score for understanding was for 'care for death and dying'. For the practical education, the highest score for understanding was for 'talking with the client' and the lowest score was for 'first aid & basic life support'. There was a significant difference in satisfaction and understanding of the theoretical and practical parts according to educational level.
CONCLUSION
Continuing education programs are needed for care workers for elders, both in the theoretical and practical areas. Also the content of programs should address the weak points of this formal education program.

Keyword

Care worker; Frail elderly; Education

MeSH Terms

Adult
Aged
Caregivers/*education/psychology
Cross-Sectional Studies
Education, Nursing, Continuing
Female
Frail Elderly
Humans
Male
Middle Aged
Program Evaluation
Questionnaires
Republic of Korea

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