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Learning Objective 1: Examine differences in perception among nursing students in their ability to care for Veterans and non-Veterans in specific care settings.
Learning Objective 2: Discuss ways to educate nursing students about the unique care needs of Veterans.
Methods: The Watson theory of transpersonal caring was chosen as the theoretical framework (Watson, 1996). Using the survey, Perceptions of Nursing Students About Caring for Veterans (Lippman and Ozment, 2007) the authors were able to evaluate the students’ perception of their efficacy to care for the Veteran population. Specific items queried student perceptions about health. Following IRB approval by Fairfield University, Connecticut data collection began. The tool was administered to a cohort of second degree BSN students before their first and after their last clinical practicum at VA Connecticut Healthcare System. The student’s perceptions were measured using the following statistical tools: descriptive statistics including means, standard deviations, frequencies, percentages and t-tests.
Results: An analysis of the results indicated there was a change in a positive direction in the nursing students’ perception of their ability to care for Veterans. For example, item #2 indicated most students initially disagreed with the statement, “I feel confident in my ability to communicate with Veterans who have served during different wars”, compared to strongly agreeing at the end of the program
Conclusion: These nursing students will have an increased vigilance when providing care to Veterans in any clinical settings. Additionally, these findings will be used to educate future nursing students in the care of Veterans.