Geriatric nursing competence and training needs among dermatology nurses: A cross-sectional study

Objective: To investigate the current status of geriatric nursing competence among dermatology nurses and analyze its potential related factors. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted with 550 dermatology nurses from 20 medical institutions in China. Data were collected using a questionnaire containing sociodemographic variables and the Geriatric Nursing Competency Assessment Scale for Clinical Nurses, which includes primary, secondary, and tertiary dimensions. Multivariate linear regression was used for analysis. Results: The overall mean score for geriatric nursing competence among dermatology nurses was 2.36 ± 0.90. Among the three primary dimensions, “professional competence” received the highest score (2.46 ± 0.89). Of the ten secondary dimensions, “critical thinking” achieved the highest score (2.48 ± 0.96), while “research and innovation” received the lowest score (2.15 ± 1.05). Experience in caring for elderly patients, the duration of geriatric nursing training, and the presence of patients aged ± 60 years were the main factors related to geriatric nursing competence. The level of the healthcare institution, educational background, work experience, and the degree of specialization in geriatric nursing training were statistically significant factors influencing dermatology nurses' competence.  Conclusions: The geriatric nursing competence of dermatology nurses is moderate. There is an urgent need to strengthen research development and promote professional growth.