Innovative strategies for incorporating gerontology into BSN curricula.
To prepare nurses in providing competent care to older adults, schools of nursing at the Otterbein College and the Florida International University, supported by American Association of Colleges of Nursing/John A. Hartford Foundation, developed innovative strategies for incorporation of gerontological content into their BSN curricula. Both nursing programs integrated these innovative gerontological learning experiences into sophomore-, junior-, and senior-level baccalaureate courses; developed independent gerontology courses, including online courses; supported the development of faculty expertise and sensitivity in elder care; and established new and/or enhanced existing community partnerships. The program objectives, planning, and implementation procedures for each of the two schools evolved similarly. Faculty development strategies and examples of community and international partnerships are presented. Finally, lessons learned from the implementation of these projects and recommendations based on these initiatives are presented.
College of Health and Urban Affairs, School of Nursing, Florida International University, Miami, 33199, USA. blaisk@fiu.edu
Kathleen
K
Blais
Eda
E
Mikolaj
Diane
D
Jedlicka
Judy
J
Strayer
Suzanne
S
Stanek
D000368:Aged; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction; D018864:Cultural Diversity; D003479:Curriculum; D004508:Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate / Q000458:organization & administration*; D004509:Education, Nursing, Continuing / Q000458:organization & administration; D005181:Faculty, Nursing / Q000458:organization & administration; D005431:Florida; D005582:Foundations / Q000458:organization & administration; D005851:Geriatric Nursing / Q000193:education*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D017145:Models, Educational; D009820:Ohio; D009937:Organizational Objectives; D011287:Prejudice; D016730:Program Development / Q000379:methods; D013192:Staff Development / Q000458:organization & administration; D013338:Students, Nursing / Q000523:psychology; D014146:Training Support / Q000458:organization & administration