Striving for Gerotranscendence: Preparing Nursing Students to Care for the Aging Population

The population of older adults in America is increasing rapidly, but many prelicensure nursing students do not understand the unique needs of these patients. Educational methods are needed that foster a mindset of research and inquiry to help older adults thrive.

A three-pronged educational hybrid was designed to help students create meaningful links between geriatric nursing theory in the classroom and application in the clinical setting.

Test scores increased for 45% of students after the intervention, and 89% reported a greater understanding of evidence-based geriatric care. Students demonstrated increased confidence in discussing geriatric care and sharing theoretical knowledge with peers.

With guided application of nursing theory in the clinical setting, students can use evidence-based care and develop nursing practice that helps older adults thrive. This prepares students to meet the demands of today's health care environment and develop practice standards that will follow them throughout their careers. [J Nurs Educ. 2020;59(9):536-538.].