University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, College of Nursing
Linda C. Hodges, PhD, RN, Dean, Janet Lord, PhD, RN (faculty contact)

Abstract

Geriatric content and experiences across settings are integrated throughout the undergraduate curriculum, culminating with two specific courses at the senior level: Nursing Care of the Older Adult Theory and Practicum. Students examine attitudes about aging, challenge stereotypes, and focus on the continuum of care delivery for the elderly. Health promotion and illness prevention are emphasized. Students practice with an interdisciplinary approach in a variety of acute, rehabilitation, long term care, and community-based settings with clients from various ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds. One clinical site is the College of Nursing Clinic in a cluster of elderly high-rise apartments with 600 residents. Students from several undergraduate and master’s level courses practice at this site. Throughout the curriculum, in addition to assessing and meeting physical, mental, and emotional needs of these clients, students identify and refer the elderly to appropriate community resources.