Volume 68, Issue 4 pp. 557-562
EXPERIENCE FROM THE FIELD

Virtual learning experiences in population health nursing course during the COVID-19 pandemic

Bushra M. Manakatt DNP, RN, FNP-C

Corresponding Author

Bushra M. Manakatt DNP, RN, FNP-C

Assistant Professor

School of Nursing, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA

Correspondence

Bushra M. Manakatt, School of Nursing, The University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX 77555, USA.

Email: [email protected]

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Zachary W. Carson RN, AGPCNP-BC

Zachary W. Carson RN, AGPCNP-BC

Adjunct Faculty/Nurse Practitioner

School of Nursing, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA

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Rebekah L. Penton DNP, RN, AGPCNP-BC

Rebekah L. Penton DNP, RN, AGPCNP-BC

Adult Gerontology Nurse practitioner

School of Nursing, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA

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Annalyn S. Demello PhD, MPH, RN, CPN

Annalyn S. Demello PhD, MPH, RN, CPN

Assistant Professor

School of Nursing, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA

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First published: 25 October 2021
Citations: 4

Funding information:

None

Abstract

Aim

To discuss the virtual learning strategies used in population health nursing course during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Background

The School of Nursing faculty in a South Central University in the United States quickly combined innovation with digital resources and transitioned a course in population health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nursing faculty were challenged to develop student nursing objectives in assessment, planning, intervention and evaluation of vulnerable populations in the community through a virtual environment.

Reflections of population health nursing clinical education

The experiences of five clinical groups are described, covering adults with disabilities, older people, patients with COVID-19 and youth populations.

Discussion

The course objectives were met through use of a digital environment. Collaborative interventions were designed and implemented with community stakeholders while maintaining social distancing policies. Successes included increased frequency of communication and learning opportunities for students and the community, and student satisfaction. Barriers to student learning were not related to the digital learning environment, although the older adults required modifications to use electronic devices.

Conclusion

Virtual classrooms are a viable platform to teach population health nursing and to benefit vulnerable populations.

Implications for nursing practice

Virtual learning offers benefits within academia and the community. Technology offers the possibility to improve mental health among older people and enhance knowledge among the general population. Students are better able to connect with clinical faculty and stakeholders through digital platforms.

Implications for nursing policy

Nurses play a vital role in improving population health and can collaborate with community stakeholders to implement innovative and sustainable solutions to nursing education, practices and policy. Digital platforms can enhance the involvement of students through these collaborations during and after the pandemic.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest.

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