Preparing nursing students for enhanced roles in primary care: The current state of prelicensure and RN-to-BSN education

Nurs Outlook. 2017 Mar-Apr;65(2):222-232. doi: 10.1016/j.outlook.2016.10.006. Epub 2016 Nov 9.

Abstract

Background: With the current emphasis on including registered nurses (RNs) on the primary care teams, it is essential that nursing programs prepare students for employment in these settings.

Purpose: This study explored the current state of prelicensure and RN-to-Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) online education regarding the implementation of primary care content in the curricula.

Methods: A sample of 1,409 schools and/or colleges from across the United States was invited to participate in an online survey. About 529 surveys were returned for an overall response rate of 37.5%. Summative content analysis was used to analyze survey data.

Discussion: Although most respondents have implemented some primary care content, some found it challenging and others have demurred from incorporating primary care content altogether.

Conclusion: Nursing leaders and faculty in academia must collaborate with clinical partners to design and expand didactic and clinical learning experiences that emphasize primary care content in the prelicensure and RN-to-BSN education.

Keywords: Prelicensure nursing education; Primary and ambulatory care nursing; Teaching primary care content in nursing education.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Ambulatory Care / organization & administration*
  • Clinical Competence*
  • Curriculum*
  • Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate / organization & administration*
  • Education, Nursing, Graduate / organization & administration*
  • Humans
  • Licensure, Nursing / standards*
  • Nurse's Role
  • Nursing Education Research
  • Primary Care Nursing*
  • Students, Nursing
  • United States