Exploring nursing students' experiences and evaluations of an integrative nursing course: A mixed-methods study

The integrative nursing framework may enhance both nurses' well-being and patient care. The EU-funded Integrative Nursing Education Series (INES) project developed educational materials to strengthen nursing curricula. A University College in Denmark studied a six-week, 10 ECTS-credits elective integrative nursing course.

Students' learning experiences were explored using a mixed-methods design. The course was structured around ten selected learning outcomes and included lectures, workshops, self-care exercises, and study-activities led by students. Quantitative data was collected through a brief questionnaire and a rubrics tool. Qualitative data were obtained via semi-structured interviews and analyzed using inductive content analysis.

Of the 39 enrolled students, 33 completed the questionnaire. A high understanding of integrative nursing was reported by 26 students (79%), and in six out of ten learning outcomes a minimum of 23 students achieved a competent level. Only four students rated themselves as having competence levels lower than expected. Interviews with 12 students revealed increased awareness of patient perspectives, improved communication skills, and a broader understanding of nursing practice. Students valued attention to self-care in education and highlighted the relevance of non-pharmacological interventions in nursing. Key facilitators included experiential learning and a supportive environment; barriers included time constraints, biomedical dominance, and limited institutional support.

Integrative nursing education can broaden students' understanding of patient care and potential for well-being. Findings suggest further integrating of self-care practices into nursing education yet recognizing institutional responsibility for nurses' well-being. Students value a person-centered approach while recognizing systemic barriers limiting the application of integrative nursing in clinical practice.

Based on relevant learning outcomes, students validated the content of the integrative nursing course. The course supports sustainable healthcare and highlights self-care as a key component of professional identity. Future steps include addressing the theory-practice gap and scaling the course to other institutions.