Exploring Nursing Students’ Attitudes and Knowledge in Caring for People with Disabilities

International Journal of Nursing and Health Science

© 2021 by SSRG - IJNHS Journal

Volume 7 Issue 2

Year of Publication : 2021

Authors : Rebecca Kronk, Susan Williams, Cassidy Kaczor, Ashley McDanald

10.14445/24547484/IJNHS-V7I2P102

How to Cite?

Rebecca Kronk, Susan Williams, Cassidy Kaczor, Ashley McDanald, "Exploring Nursing Students’ Attitudes and Knowledge in Caring for People with Disabilities," SSRG International Journal of Nursing and Health Science, vol. 7,  no. 2, pp. 8-11, 2021. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/24547484/IJNHS-V7I2P102

Abstract:

Literature reveals that content in nursing curricula specific to disability health care is limited; poor communication, lack of competence, negative attitudes, and quality of care by nursing staff are concerns raised by people with disabilities (PWDs).
A. Purpose: Explore the knowledge, attitudes, and comfort level of pre-licensed nursing students in caring for PWDs.
B. Method: Nursing students (N = 124) received a pre-post course survey collecting quantitative and qualitative data. Educational interventions included a focused lecture and an authentic encounter with a simulated patient consultant with a disability.
C. Results: Two survey domains improved: working with PWD’s in a clinical setting (p = .000) and positive impressions of self-concepts of PWD (p = .019). All survey items shifted positively; 41% of survey items statistically improved (alpha < .05). Post course themes shifted from self-concern to patient advocacy.
D. Conclusion: Educational interventions can better be prepared nurses in caring for PWDs.

Keywords:

disability care, educational intervention, nursing student

References:

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