title: An intensive cultural experience in a rural area.
abstract: More well-trained mental health professionals serving rural and minority populations are needed. This article describes an intensive clinical experience for psychiatric mental health nursing graduates in the rural, culturally diverse Tri-Cities (Pasco, Richland, and Kennewick) of Washington. Before discussing the short-term learning experience and outcomes, the social history of the area is explained because of its impact on current health needs and the kinds of learning opportunities available. In addition, personal reflections of student participants are included.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychosocial & Community Health, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195-7263, USA. thomasmd@u.washington.edu
authors.forename: Mary Durand
authors.initials: MD
authors.lastname: Thomas
authors.forename: Sergio A
authors.initials: SA
authors.lastname: Olivares
authors.forename: Hyun Jung
authors.initials: HJ
authors.lastname: Kim
authors.forename: Cheryle
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Beilke
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003155:Community Mental Health Centers / Q000458:organization & administration*; D018864:Cultural Diversity; D004511:Education, Nursing, Graduate / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006630:Hispanic or Latino; D006801:Humans; D007198:Indians, North American; D020380:Needs Assessment; D015402:Nursing Education Research; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D015397:Program Evaluation; D011568:Psychiatric Nursing / Q000193:education* / Q000458:organization & administration; D019035:Rural Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D013338:Students, Nursing / Q000523:psychology; D016746:Transcultural Nursing / Q000193:education* / Q000458:organization & administration; D014171:Transients and Migrants; D014861:Washington