Keywords

curriculum, death and dying, end-of-life, ELNEC, learning bundles, nursing education, simulation

 

Authors

  1. Carman, Margaret J. DNP, ACNP-BC, ENP-BC, FAEN
  2. Sloane, Richard PhD
  3. Molloy, Margory DNP, RN, CNE, CHSE
  4. Flint, Elizabeth PhD
  5. Phillips, Beth PhD, MSN, RN, CNE

Abstract

This educational study examined the effects of a multidimensional end-of-life (EOL) learning bundle on student attitudes toward care of the dying person as measured using the Frommelt Attitudes on Care of the Dying (FATCOD) scale. New nurses, including both nursing students and recent graduates, often report anxiety and a lack of educational preparation to promote competence in providing EOL care. Seventy-one first-semester students from an accelerated bachelor of science in nursing program participated in this experience. The learning bundle consisted of didactic content, coupled with open classroom discussion and simulation on care of the dying patient and their family. Preimplementation and postimplementation pooled t tests were used to evaluate changes in the total FATCOD score and family and individual subscales, in addition to individual item analysis. Total FATCOD score, individual and family subscales, and select items related to care of the dying person were found to be significantly improved with the use of the EOL learning bundle. Use of an EOL learning bundle improved attitudes on performing EOL care for prelicensure nursing students.