Collaborative learning experiences for nursing students in environmental health

Recognition that the environment is a determinant of health is deeply rooted in the heritage of nursing. Environmental hazards and their effects on health rarely have simple solutions that can be managed by one discipline alone. Environmental health issues are complex in nature and the science is developing rapidly. Primary prevention strategies often involve the participation of professionals from fields other than nursing, and interdisciplinary, collaborative efforts are usually required. This article describes learning experiences about local environmental health issues, several of which were designed to initiate and foster collaboration between baccalaureate nursing students and graduate students in public health.