Integrating care of older adults into the nursing curriculum: a case exemplar project

The growing number of older adults in the United States necessitates that nurses be prepared to care for this population. A case exemplar was created for use in a baccalaureate nursing program to prepare students for care of older adults in multiple settings, as well as to heighten interprofessional health care partnerships. The case exemplar follows the character, Mrs. Gates, in a scenario throughout the program. Another character, Mrs. Strokes, is introduced in a high-fidelity laboratory simulation activity for more advanced students. The case scenario uses a team approach to care and includes activities that optimize critical thinking. This article describes the process of creating a case exemplar, including project pilot testing, and the potential for interprofessional education. The incorporation of case exemplars such as these can enhance the teaching-learning process, thereby improving care for older adults and their families.