Recorded presentation

Nancy L. Falk, MBA, BSN and Kathi Huddleston, MSN, RN. College of Nursing and Health Science, George Mason University, 7756 Marshall Heights Court, Falls Church, VA 22043, 703-827-8953, nfalk@gmu.edu

Nurses--stressed at home, stressed at work. Our society currently faces a national nursing shortage. Many nurses are feeling the pressure of the nursing shortage at work while experiencing the stresses of caring for their children and aging parents at home. They are part of what is known as the “sandwich generation.” We face increased longevity of our population and an aging nursing workforce whose average age is 46 years of age. With advances in medical treatments and technology, nurses increasingly find themselves in the role of “health care moderator” taking on responsibilities as family health options interpreter, financial/insurance analyst and direct care provider for their family and their aging parents. This study will analyze the stressors felt by nurses who are caring for their aging parents. The qualitative component includes interviews with nurses caring for their parents and their family. Data will be analyzed and themes will be identified from the interviews. A combination of qualitative and quantitative data will be utilized. Case studies and references on role confusion, family dynamics and the use of life review will be incorporated into this presentation.

Learning Objectives: