The factors that affect HCA routes into nurse training

Hibbert, Agnes PhD, MSc, BSc, RN, CertEd

Agnes Hibbert, PhD, MSc, BSc, RN, CertEd, is a health care education consultant.

This article has been double-blind peer-reviewed.

For related articles on this subject and links to relevant websites see www.nursingtimes.net

Nursing Times 102(1):p 32-36, January 3, 2006.

ABSTRACT

Hibbert, A. (2006) The factors that affect HCA routes into nurse training. Nursing Times; 102: 1, 32-36.

AIM

A scoping study to give an insight into progression for health care assistants.

METHOD

Semistructured telephone interviews were used to gain the views of strategic health authorities and workforce development directorates on HCA progression. These were compared with the Department of Health's figures on HCA progression.

RESULTS

The main findings indicate that a new definition for the role of HCA is essential in order to monitor HCA progression. In addition, establishing more robust and transparent systems designed to support learning opportunities for HCAs is required, including accreditation of prior experiential learning systems.

CONCLUSION

It appears there is inconsistency in practice across England and there are relatively few opportunities for HCA advancement. Recommendations for ways to support HCAs prior to devolving budgets and responsibility are offered.