Where are
the Children?
Benefits and disadvantage of teaching pediatrics in an integrated format
Nina Haines, MSN, RN, CPNP-PC
Lori Beard, MSN, RN
Mary C. Day, MSN, RN, CEN, ACNS-BC
Margo Mengel, MSN, RN
Cheryl Moody, MSN, RN, CCRN
Abstract
Integrating pediatric
content is a challenge to nurse educators. Limited
information exists regarding the most effective method of teaching pediatrics. Nurse educators disagree on placement of pediatric
content. Pediatric concepts are at risk of getting
lost or deemed unimportant as other concepts are expanded. This article will examine the experience of educators in a
nursing program that integrated pediatric content.
The benefits and disadvantage of teaching pediatrics in an integrated format will be discussed.
Methods
Analysis of objective and
subjective data related to the process of integrated pediatric content in the curriculum.
Implications for Practice/ Objective
Nurses will expand upon
their own knowledge about changes in nursing curriculums. The changes that take place clinically effect the need
to provide additional content into nursing education. This requires creative ways to “fit” this information into
the curriculum in a timely and effective manner. Many nurses have contact with children of all ages in different
areas of healthcare. There is need to ensure that students are obtaining the knowledge to safely care for
children.
Introduction
The philosophy of the
nursing faculty at The Reading Hospital School of Health Sciences, Nursing Program involves educating the
nursing student on concepts beginning with normal and simple progressing to abnormal and complex. Basic under-girding of the philosophy incorporates
scientific, technical, and behavioral knowledge to assist individuals across the lifespan to promote, maintain,
or restore their health, or experience a dignified death. The central focus of the philosophy is the individual with
physical, emotional, psychological, intellectual, social, and spiritual needs. As a dynamic human being, the individual interacts with the
internal and external environment across the lifespan. The philosophy supports the integration of the pediatric
content throughout the curriculum.
The purpose of this article is to examine the experience of
nurse educators implementing the integration of the pediatric content over the past six years. Through the lived experience, the educators will discuss both
the advantages and challenges of pediatric content integration. With the integration of pediatric content, educational goals
for the nursing students include demonstrating pediatric knowledge needed for entry-level practice, applying
theory to meet the healthcare needs of the pediatric population, and assisting the pediatric patient to maintain
or achieve wellness through healthcare teaching.
| 
Digg
Facebook
Google Bookmarks
Stumbleupon
Livejournal
Twitter