Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the attitudes of baccalaureate nursing students toward caring for the dying at the beginning and end of a baccalaureate nursing program and factors that influence student perceptions. A multi method study was utilized to identify changes in attitude toward caring for the dying (measured by the FATCOD) and factors that impacted student perceptions (open-ended question). Methods: Baccalaureate nursing students were surveyed at the beginning and end of the nursing program. Results: Results include descriptive statistics for demographics (age, gender, previous experience in caring for the dying, current experience in caring for the dying). Linear regression demonstrated that total attitudes scores of baccalaureate nursing students at the beginning were lower than at the end of the nursing program (p=0.0001). Conclusion: This change indicates increased comfort in caring for the dying patient. Qualitative analysis for factors that influenced student attitudes about caring for the dying will be presented by themes.
This study aimed to determine student attitudes toward caring for the dying and factors that influence student perceptions. Results indicate a positive change in attitude between students at the beginning and end of the program. Factors that influence attitudes include personal life as well as experiences associated with the nursing education program. This study expands understanding of student perceptions about caring for the dying and provides a foundation for improvement in the education program. Implications for education, practice, and leadership will be discussed.