A survey on the training needs of caregivers in five European countries

Abstract

Aim: This survey explored caregivers' perceived training needs in 5 European countries (United Kingdom, Greece, Bulgaria, Poland and Italy).

Background: Training can enhance the professional capacity of caregivers; however, caregivers' training needs within Europe have not been examined recently.

Methods: A survey conducted in 2015 captured data from 550 caregivers using a convenience sampling strategy, through a structured questionnaire and additional open-ended items and by conducting statistical and content analysis.

Results: The results indicated basic nursing skills and specialization, as well as training in psychology-related skills like time management, emotion regulation, communication and advanced health care systems as the emerging training needs. There were some country differences in specific training need areas.

Conclusions: It was concluded that training in basic nursing skills and specialization in nursing specific conditions, in advanced health care systems and in psychology-related skills could add to the professional capacity of European caregivers employed in health and social care.

Implications for nursing management: The findings inform about employed caregivers' training needs in Europe, which may contribute in the provision of quality care and organisational efficiency in health and social care.