Identifying the continuing education needs of personal care workers in two residential aged care facilities by an appreciative inquiry study

Abstract

BackgroundPersonal care workers make up most of the workforce in residential aged care facilities, but they are under-served by continuing education providers. AimThis study aimed to explore the Continuing Education needs of personal care workers from the perspectives of care staff at two residential aged care facilities in regional Queensland, Australia. MethodsThis appreciative inquiry study used a visioning activity to inspire thoughts of the ideal PCW during the interviews and focus groups about the continuing education needs of personal care workers. FindingsGaps exist in the preservice preparation and continuing education of personal care workers, despite a reliance on the personal care worker role to be the 'eyes and ears' of other health professionals. The personal care workers identified their aspirational education needs for ‘best’ practice. DiscussionPersonal care workers must be adequately prepared through evidence-based continuing education to respond to residents' emerging needs. However, there was an educational mismatch for them because the PCW curriculum does not adequately prepare the participants for their role. Identifying personal care workers continuing education needs will enhance practice and improve the quality of care. Improving personal care worker education will address several public concerns about the quality of care in residential aged care facilities. ConclusionThe personal care worker preservice education curriculum is inadequate. Improved personal care worker knowledge and skills are possible when the participants inform the curriculum. Furthermore, if aspirational curricula are designed by potential participants, then continuing education can build ideal practices.