Integrating Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) into Undergraduate Nursing Education to Ensure Equity and Inclusion in Acute Care Nursing.
Purpose
Identify social determinants of health (SDOH) content for integration into an acute care nursing education curriculum
Background and significance
The use of SDOH to promote equity and inclusiveness in nursing care has traditionally been incorporated into community health nursing courses, but little has been integrated into acute care nursing education and practice.
Theoretical/Conceptual framework
Thomas Model for Curriculum Development
Method
Curricular content was identified through a general assessment/literature review and a Target Assessment using focus groups with key stakeholders (students, nursing faculty, clinical instructors and preceptors). Modules were developed based on the findings of the focus groups, implemented and evaluated. Each module was developed by nurse-social work faculty pairs. During the pilot phase two modules are offered and evaluated each semester with undergraduate students participating in an acute care nurse scholar program.
Results
Based on general and target assessments, 7 overarching module topics have been identified related to SDOH in acute care nursing (SDOH Fundamentals, Communication, Assessment, Motivational Interviewing, Planning, Implementation and System Level Concepts) and 4 modules that apply to specific acute care practice areas (Medical/surgical, obstetrics, pediatrics, mental health). The project team finalized the curricular content and educational strategies for each module. Students will evaluate the degree to which the learning objectives meet stated objectives and the extent to which modules are integrated into nursing undergraduate course content.
Conclusions
Use of a theoretically grounded approach for curriculum development supports the integration of SDOH into acute care nursing education to potentially improve equitable inclusiveness into nursing education and practice.
Integrating Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) into Undergraduate Nursing Education to Ensure Equity and Inclusion in Acute Care Nursing.