Mary Harney
Question:73 Miss Harney asked the Minister for Health the steps, if any, he proposes to take to implement a proper training and qualification system for geriatric nurses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7436/96]
Written Answers. - Training for Geriatric Nurses.
Mary Harney
Question:81 Miss Harney asked the Minister for Health the steps, if any, he proposes to take to implement a proper training and qualification system for geriatric nurses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7636/96]
Limerick East): I propose to answer Questions Nos. 73 and 81 together.
Care of the elderly is an essential theoretical and clinical component of the existing pre-registration training programmes for general, mental handicap and psychiatric nurses in accordance with the rules and syllabi of An Bord Altranais. The revised diploma based model of general nursing pre-registration education and training, which was introduced in the Western Health Board in 1994, extended to further schools of nursing in 1995 and to be extended again this year, increased and strengthened the clinical experience component related to the care of the elderly. I am satisfied that this area of nursing care is adequately covered in the pre-registration training of nurses.
In relation to post-registration specialisation in geriatric nursing, An Bord Altranais has approved the following courses: a gerontological nursing course in James Connolly Memorial Hospital, Blanchardstown; a Diploma in Gerontological Nursing in St. James's Hospital/Trinity College; and a Master of Science in Gerontological Nursing in St. James's Hospital/Trinity College. The involvement of the third level sector in specialised gerontology nursing courses is very recent and welcome.
These courses are optional and are not a prerequisite for nurses who wish to specialise in geriatric nursing. Again, I am satisfied with the content of such courses and the qualifications awarded.