Model Geriatric Clinical Education in Dietetics

• Published in: Journal of the American Dietetic Association 1995-09, Vol.95 (9), p.A52-A52
• Main Authors: Siler, N.P., Murillo, G., Klich, J.R., Kamath, S.K.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0002-8223; 1878-3570
• DOI: 10.1016/S0002-8223(95)00524-2

Methodology: Through research supplemented by interviews with professionals working in geriatrics and dietetic educators, a survey was developed with sixty-one objectives in six domains to determine their relative importance in entry level dietetic practice and if they were covered in the curriculum. The six domains were cognitive knowledge, affective, clinical skills, professional practice, foodservice administration, and public policy. The objectives in these domains were identified as being important to develop dietetic professionals who are competent to work with the elderly in a variety of settings. The survey was then administered to alumni who graduated between 1990–1994 whose mail was deliverable. There were a total of 56 available alumni with 21 returning the surveys or a return rate of 37.5%. Results: Of the original 61 survey objectives, 52 were categorized as being important to essential for dietetic practice by alumni. Their responses also identified that the coordinated program did provide minimal exposure up to adequate coverage and competency in an average of 88% of the 52 objectives. Assessment of coverage in the curriculum of the individual objectives ranged from 41–100%. Conclusion: It is possible to cover a multitude of objectives which deal with knowledge and practice in six domains in a variety of classroom and clinical settings to adequately prepare graduates to work with geriatric clients in the field of dietetics.(This research was supported the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services grant #1-376000511A-7.)