Mental Health (NDFM 2007) Research Survey

The survey aims to determine if NorQuest PN students are prepared for interactions with patients with mental health issues during their first clinical rotations. During clinical placement, student nurses work to put theory to practice. Mental health nursing theory (NFDN 2007) is offered late in the PN program at NorQuest College, after the student nurse has completed three instructor-led clinical rotations. Since patients with mental health issues can be on every hospital unit, students might benefit from early mental health education including substance abuse, dementia, and de-stigmatization of their own feelings. Survey results will indicate preferred methods of learning (such as case study, simulation, module completion), and point towards how and where best to provide curriculum development.

Purpose: to determine by survey if students are prepared for interactions with patients with mental health issues during their first clinical rotations.

Objectives: to see if mental health nursing readiness exists; determine education needs; begin to develop teaching material based on student needs; determine ways those needs can be addressed (such as prior to clinical rotations, at post-conference, as debrief sessions, or in an as-needed approach).

Hypothesis: Lack of a formal introduction through PN curriculum to mental health nursing contributes to the stress practical nursing students have during clinical placements.

Other project information

Project leads
  • Heather Zirk
    Instructor, Nursing,
    NorQuest College

  • Terilee Olorenshaw
    Practical Nurse Student Advisor,Nursing,
    NorQuest College