The time has come--a study of geriatric continuing education in Ohio Visiting Nurse Associations.

A majority of nurses working in the community lack formal educational preparation to care for older adults. This study examined the perceived learning needs of Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) executives and agency staff nurses in Ohio related to continuing education in gerontology. Twenty-six executives and 478 staff nurses were asked to complete a gerontologic education survey; 17 executives and 344 staff nurses returned surveys. Findings suggest that few Ohio VNAs have focused on continuing education in gerontology. Indications exist that executives and staff nurses are not always in agreement regarding the importance of content needed for updating gerontological knowledge and skills. Educational and organizational strategies are offered to provide minimal standards for gerontologic professional practice in home care.