Joining Forces: Enriching RN-to-BSN Education With Veteran-Centered Experiences

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Military Health
• Public Health Initiatives

Background:

• The Joining Forces initiative aims to improve healthcare for veterans, service members, and their families.
• Nursing schools play a crucial role in preparing healthcare professionals to meet the unique needs of this population.
• There is a need to integrate specialized training on veteran-centered care into nursing curricula.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the American Association of Colleges of Nursing's efforts to engage nursing schools in supporting the Joining Forces initiative.
• To report on the progress of integrating veteran-centered learning into an online Registered Nurse-to-Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) program.

Main Methods:

• The article outlines strategies used by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing to promote the Joining Forces initiative among member schools.
• It details the curriculum development and implementation process for veteran-centered content within an online RN to BSN program.

Main Results:

• Nursing schools are increasingly committing to the Joining Forces pledge.
• Veteran-centered learning modules have been successfully integrated into the online RN to BSN curriculum.
• Faculty and students have shown engagement with the new veteran-focused educational content.

Conclusions:

• The integration of veteran-centered learning is feasible and effective within online nursing education.
• Enhanced nursing education is vital for providing quality care to veterans, service members, and their families.
• Continued commitment and collaboration are essential to fully realize the goals of the Joining Forces initiative.