The Perception of “Training Availability” Among Certified Nurse Aides: Relationship to CNA Performance, Turnover, Attitudes, Burnout, and Empowerment

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the certified nurse aides' (CNAs) perception that “training is always available when needed” and the CNAs' performance, turnover, attitudes, burnout, and empowerment. The data came from a larger study where a self-administered survey instrument was completed by 359 CNAs working in 11 nursing homes in the North Texas region. The data analyses largely support previous research. Perceived training availability was most highly associated with participation in decision making, information exchange, the procedures used, and satisfaction/commitment. The data suggest that the CNAs surveyed may not have received substantial training related to the depersonalization of residents, self-esteem, and direct decision making. Further, the findings suggest an opportunity to improve training by including a component to help CNAs transfer the skills and knowledge learned during the training to the actual provision of resident care.

KEYWORDS:

• nursing homes
• certified nurse aides
• training
• performance
• job attitudes

This research was supported by The Commonwealth Fund, a private, independent foundation based in New York City. The views presented here are those of the authors and not necessarily those of The Commonwealth Fund, its directors, officers, or staff. We thank C. C. Young, Christian Care Centers, Inc., Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society, Mariner Health Care, Nexion Health, Inc., and Pacific Retirement Services Inc., for participating with us in this adventure.