PS2 Promotion of Self-Care within Nursing Education

Presenters

Katie Cabrera, School of Nursing
Kristen Hammerer, School of Nursing

Abstract

Promoting self-care within nursing education programs is essential for nurturing personal well-being and resilience among nursing students. Traditional nursing education often emphasizes the importance of caring for others while inadvertently neglecting the development of effective self-care strategies. The rigors of nursing education can significantly affect students academically and emotionally, subjecting them to elevated levels of stress, anxiety, and burnout, particularly during demanding clinical placements and intensive coursework. Addressing the well-being and resilience of nursing students is a pressing concern for higher education providers, especially given the high prevalence of stress and attrition rates among this population.

Nurse educators play a vital role in promoting a holistic understanding of health by integrating evidence-informed self-care practices into the curriculum. This requires transformative and experiential teaching methods that enable meaningful student engagement along their self-care journey. Beyond personal well-being, the cultivation of self-care skills is vital for professional development; nurses who actively prioritize self-care are better prepared to deliver high-quality care to their patients. Developing skills in stress management and resilience is paramount for success in the nursing profession, where the demands can be exceptionally high.

By prioritizing and actively promoting self-care strategies within nursing education programs, educators convey a powerful message about its significance in nursing practice. This emphasis not only enhances the personal health of nursing students but also equips them with the tools necessary to foster a compassionate and effective care environment for their future clients.

Session Poster

Promotion of Self-Care within Nursing Education poster