With the increase in life expectancy and an aging population, there is a growing need for specialized healthcare professionals who are dedicated to the healthcare needs of older adults. This has resulted in a new specialization in the nursing field referred to as GNPs – or - Geriatric Nurse Practitioners. The primary role of GNP nurses is to care for older patients and to assist them in overcoming health challenges they face with an intent to improve their quality of life. For this, they utilize all-inclusive functional and psycho social management strategies when dealing with health and illness.
The Typical Duties of a Geriatric Nurse:
A Geriatric Nurse Practitioner treats and cares for older patients. The majority of older patients suffer from multiple ailments. That’s why GNPs need to always be on alert regarding their patient’s possible existing conditions by keeping record of new symptoms, and all drug interactions. As compared to a general practitioner, they are more likely to be involved in long-term care, prescribing physical therapies from time to time, and adjusting medications.
A Geriatric Nurse Practitioner treats and cares for older patients. The majority of older patients suffer from multiple ailments. That’s why GNPs need to always be on alert regarding their patient’s possible existing conditions by keeping record of new symptoms, and all drug interactions. As compared to a general practitioner, they are more likely to be involved in long-term care, prescribing physical therapies from time to time, and adjusting medications.
Typical Healthcare Settings for Geriatric Nurses:
- Hospitals
- Community and Government agencies
- Clinical practices,
- Hospice services
- Long-term care facilities
- Research universities
- Home Health Services
- Counseling centers
Besides the above-mentioned medical facilities, a geriatric nurse can also be employed in an outpatient clinic, a palliative care clinic, and serve as a consultant to private companies who are dedicated to the care of older patients. Working with these private companies calls for some travelling, as they need to visit the patient at their home, and then counsel the family members or primary care giver.
Academic Qualifications and Credentials:
A nursing student aspiring to be a Geriatric Nurse needs to have a Bachelor’s degree in nursing or any other healthcare field from a recognized institute. After successfully completing their degree, they need to get their license to practice as an RN and then gain relevant experience in the field. After gaining this experience, they can pursue a PG course or specialization course in geriatric care.
INSCOL offers one-year graduate certificate in Gerontology in partnership with Niagara College, Welland Campus Canada. Gerontology Program For IEN is designed for internationally educated nurses and she dslight on many essential concepts such as care planning, effective geriatric care, common cognitive challenges faced by older patients, and critical thinking & decision-making.
Visit at inscol.com to explore the top nursing courses in Canada for international students.
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