Overview of the Job Duties of a Geriatric Nurse

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Geriatric nursing is a field specializing in the treatment of seniors. As the baby boomer generation ages, this is becoming a far more pressing issue in medicine. It is not only a present issue, but also one concerned with the distant future. It is estimated by the U.S. Census that by the year 2050, 88 million people will be over the age of 65, indeed Generation X, the generation following the baby boomer post World War II population. Furthermore, it is estimated that only one percent of nurses are certified specifically in gerontology care.

This is good news for people interested in geriatric nursing, as it is an in-demand field, and also one that has a variety of avenues to pursue. Gerontology is concerned with the treatment of older adults and spends most of their time treating patients and educating patients.

Job Duties of Geriatric Nursing

The goal is not merely to keep older patients alive longer, but to keep them independent and active, as this increases the natural lifespan. The most important tasks in this profession include understanding a patient’s mental status, observing important health issues, discussing prevention and common health risks, and monitoring medications.

Teaching is also an important part of the job, as not too many patients will understand how lifestyle affects body change. Most people believe that life functions “normally” for most of their lives, without considering how drastically things will change after the 30 year mark, and then far more drastically into the 50s and 60s. Your job is not only one of support and advocacy, but also in counseling.

A Day in the Life of Gerontology Nursing

Judith Hertz, Ph.D., RN, and president of the National Gerontological Nursing Association was interviewed by Nurse Zone. In the interview, she stated that one thing she enjoys about the profession is patients and families that are very appreciative for a nurse’s time. She also cites the personal stories patients relate as one of the perks of the career field, as “the wisdom each person has to share” gives a tremendous feeling of accomplishment.

One interesting tip she gives new students is to consider the diversity ranges in geriatric nursing, as age isn’t as relevant as one might think in determining a person’s health. “Each person is unique…because of genetic and physiological differences, but also because of life experiences.”

A Rewarding Career Choice

This is a rewarding career, particularly for nurses who want to specialize in a field and perhaps take a break from the intense laboring of emergency rooms and ICUs. Of course, no nursing profession is without stress. Much of your daily routine will be determined by the facility at which you find employment. There may be a difference between working in a nursing home than working in a senior center, retirement community, or even going to a patient’s home.

This is a counseling job that is just as personally rewarding as it is professionally advantageous. Learn more about this career possibility by contacting a school and beginning your nursing career.