Evaluating End-of-Life Care Education Needs for Healthcare Students
Author Information
Author(s): Phung Quynh, King Angelique, Decker Autumn, Roman Anna, Patterson Logan, Weaver Raven, Bolkan Cory
Primary Institution: Washington State University
Hypothesis
Healthcare professionals lack adequate training in end-of-life care education.
Conclusion
The study found significant deficiencies in end-of-life education among healthcare students, with a strong desire for more training.
Supporting Evidence
- 99% of healthcare providers acknowledge the importance of advance care planning discussions.
- Over two-thirds of physicians lack adequate training in end-of-life care.
- Only 32% of students reported any curricular exposure to end-of-life education.
- Students with prior exposure to death had less negative feelings about it.
- Nursing students showed significantly higher familiarity with end-of-life topics compared to other programs.
- Over 83% of students expressed a strong desire for more death education.
- Time constraints make workshops and seminars more feasible than comprehensive courses.
- Real exposure and reflection are important components in training for end-of-life discussions.
Takeaway
Many healthcare students feel unprepared to talk about death and want more training on it.
Methodology
A survey was conducted among healthcare students to assess their educational and emotional needs regarding end-of-life care.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-reported familiarity and exposure to end-of-life topics.
Limitations
The study may not represent all healthcare programs and relies on self-reported data.
Participant Demographics
Healthcare students from medical, nursing, and other programs at a large public university.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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