Feeding beliefs of certified nurse assistants in the nursing home: a factor influencing practice.

In this study, the author examined the feeding beliefs of 20 certified nurse assistants (CNAs) working in nursing homes using Q methodology and semistructured interviews. Beliefs are defined as a combination of CNA feeding knowledge, experience, and values. Two groups of CNAs with contra belief systems emerged from the analysis. "Social feeders" believe feeding is a time to socialize with residents and "technical feeders" believe prroviding adequate nutrition is the main goal when feeding. CNAs felt their beliefs influenced their feeding practices. Training programs need to include all factors that may influence CNA feeding practices, such as CNAs' beliefs, resident characteristics, and institutional factors.