Knowledge and perceptions of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) among prelicensure nursing students

Abstract

Objectives: Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) impact health outcomes in adulthood. Positive childhood experiences (PCEs) are associated with resiliency and improved mental and physical health outcomes. There is often a lack of content on ACEs in nursing education. The purpose of this project was to determine the knowledge and perceptions of ACEs and PCEs among prelicensure nursing students.

Methods: A mixed-method pilot study was implanted. Prelicensure nursing students received didactic instruction on ACEs and PCEs and completed online, anonymous ten-item pre- and post-surveys about knowledge on ACEs and PCEs.

Results: A positive percent change was observed with all ten statements from pre- to post-surveys. Six themes emerged from qualitative analysis, revealing the importance and benefits of education on ACEs and PCEs.

Conclusions: This study shows that nursing students valued education regarding ACEs, were willing to incorporate their knowledge of ACEs into their practice, and discovered they might have been exposed to ACEs themselves. Implications for International Audience: All nursing programs must include content on ACEs and PCEs to prepare better nurses to care for patients.

Keywords: adverse childhood experiences; nursing education; nursing students; positive childhood experiences.