Journal of Gerontological Nursing
Vol. 33 No. 6 June 2007
By Karen Pennington, PhD, RN; JoAnn G. Congdon, PhD, RN, FAAN; Joan K. Magilvy, PhD, RN, FAAN
ABSTRACT
The purpose of this study was to describe the characteristics, work perceptions, and factors influencing employment of second-career certified nursing assistants (CNAs) in nursing homes. The qualitative descriptive design included a purposeful sample of 17 participants from 5 nursing homes. Data generation consisted of demographic surveys and audiotaped interviews that were transcribed, coded, and analyzed for emerging themes. Four themes were identified: negative first impressions of the work did not deter second-career CNAs, second-career CNAs lived out personal ideals and values through their work, positive relationships and job benefits retained second-career CNAs, and second-career CNAs expressed hopes for transforming nursing homes. Results revealed a group of committed, mature workers to fill labor shortages in an essential health care setting.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Dr. Pennington is Assistant Professor, Department of Nursing, Regis University, Rueckert-Hartman School for Health Care Professions, Denver, Colorado, and Dr. Congdon is Professor and Division Chair and Dr. Magilvy is Associate Dean for Academic Programs and PhD Program Director, School of Nursing, University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences Center, Denver, Colorado.
The authors disclose that they have no significant financial interests in any product or class of products discussed directly or indirectly in this activity, including research support.
Address correspondence to Karen Pennington, PhD, RN, Assistant Professor, Department of Nursing, Regis University, Rueckert-Hartman School for Health Care Professions, 3333 Regis Boulevard, G-8, Denver, CO 80221-1099; e-mail: kpenning@regis.edu.
