Integrating Environmental Sustainability Content Into an RN-to-BSN Program: A Pilot Study.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Nursing Education
• Public Health

Background:

• Environmental sustainability is crucial due to its links with climate change and health.
• Integrating environmental sustainability into nursing curricula is essential for future healthcare professionals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of a sustainability learning module on nursing students' attitudes.
• To evaluate changes in environmental sustainability awareness and practices within a nursing context.

Main Methods:

• A 4-week learning module on sustainability in nursing was implemented.
• Students created blog posts synthesizing learning materials and clinical observations.
• The Sustainability Attitudes in Nursing Survey measured pre- and post-intervention attitudes.

Main Results:

• Post-intervention scores showed improvement in most sustainability attitude variables.
• Statistically significant differences were observed in nine attitude items between pretest and posttest.
• The intervention demonstrated a positive effect on students' attitudes toward workplace sustainability.

Conclusions:

• A brief educational intervention significantly enhanced practicing nurses' attitudes toward environmental sustainability.
• Findings support the inclusion of sustainability modules in nursing education to foster environmentally conscious healthcare practices.