Enhancing Geriatric Competencies: Integrating the 4Ms Framework in a Baccalaureate Nursing Program

Today's nursing students will care for tomorrow's older adult population. Integrating the Institute for Healthcare Improvement's Age-Friendly Health Systems (AFHS) 4Ms framework can improve students' knowledge and ability to care for older adults.

The 4Ms framework was pilot tested in a first-semester prelicensure course. Students were evaluated on knowledge and application of the framework through didactic, simulation, and clinical learning experiences; qualitative and quantitative data were obtained.

Students' average score on three knowledge checks was 77.2% (range, 73.4% to 81%). Students were assessed for application of the 4Ms during clinical experiences in the Fall (76%) and Spring (92%) semesters. Qualitative data demonstrated that students' ability to apply the 4Ms in patient care increased.

Integrating the 4Ms framework in the curriculum fostered nursing students' awareness of the essential components of AFHS. Learning experiences provided students the opportunity to care for older adults and gain competence in age-friendly care. [.