A Pediatric Oncology Diverse Learning Course on Caring for nursing students’ reflection

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

Aim(s): This study aimed to determine if a pediatric oncology diverse learning course could enhance nursing students’ theoretical knowledge and understanding of clinical care for children with leukemia and their families.

Method(s): This was a qualitative retrospective study. Data were collected in July 2016. Participants were college nursing students (N = 33) enrolled in a diverse learning course in pediatric oncology, which was taught between November 2014 and January 2015 at a science and technology university in Taiwan. The three-part course included reading picture books, participating in role-playing, and watching a cancer-related family movie. Focus group discussions occurred during each part. Students maintained written reflections during the course, which were submitted to an e-learning website. Reflections were analyzed using content analysis.

Result(s): Students’ reflections resulted in five main themes: (1) Pediatric oncology nursing knowledge and skills learned; (2) Understanding children with leukemia and their families suffering; (3) Empathy parents’ and children’s reactions to the effects of leukemia; (4) Nursing skills necessary for caring for children with leukemia; and (5) Expect future role as a pediatric oncology nurse.

Conclusion(s): The pediatric oncology simulation course employed multiple teaching strategies. The improvements in student cognition, empathy, and understanding of care requirements of children with leukemia and emotional needs of families as pediatric oncology nurses suggest the teaching objectives of enhancing student learning were achieved. The knowledge and skills acquired could assist students in developing professional competencies and values in nursing.