Date of Award

5-11-2013

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Honors Thesis

Department

Pharmacy

First Advisor

Sarah Nisly

Second Advisor

Eliza Dy

Abstract

Objective: To assess student comfort levels and perceptions toward geriatric care after participation in a hypertension screening and education event, and to assess knowledge retention in the elderly participants.

Methods: This multiphase, survey based study evaluated pharmacy and physician assistant students' comfort levels and perceptions of the elderly. The study also used questionnaires to assess knowledge retention in the elderly at immediate, one-month, and three-month intervals.

Results: Student comfort levels significantly increased and perceptions remained unchanged after participation in the education and screening event. Elderly participant knowledge retention remained at around a 90% correct response rate.

Conclusion: Increasing student interactions with the elderly through direct patient care may enhance their comfort and confidence in caring for this population when students become healthcare practitioners in the future.

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