University of Alabama in Huntsville - College of Nursing
C. Fay Raines, PhD, RN Dean; Elizabeth Tanner (faculty contact)

Abstract:
The University of Alabama in Huntsville College of Nursing curriculum provides educational experiences that prepare registered nurse students in a baccalaureate program (RN to BSN) to practice in rural under-served areas. The program helps students meet the challenge of delivering community-based care to vulnerable clients. The importance of addressing the needs of an aging population is emphasized throughout the curriculum, and principles that relate to gerontologic nursing are applied in continuous clinical experiences with elderly clients. Theory and course content are reflected and applied in an on-going clinical program that targets local vulnerable elders in the region. The 39 hour/semester program rests on faculty who are committed to advancing nursing frontiers especially to the under-served poor.

The program’s central core is an on-going clinical experience that is collaborative in nature and community-based in delivery. A coalition of health care experts, social service agencies, and civic groups join with the College of Nursing to address the educational needs of students and health needs of the rural elderly in northern Alabama. Students enroll in courses focusing on theory, research, health assessment, long-term care and care of families, aggregates and communities. Students provide holistic assessments and help create community-based strategic care plans for a caseload of rural elders. Outcomes from these experiences are far reaching for both the community and the students.