Betty L Leef1, Donna Hallas. 1. New York University College of Nursing, New York, New York, USA. betty_leef@hotmail.com
Abstract
AIM: The aim of this study was to examine the long-term effectiveness of the Sensitivity Training Clown Workshop (STCW) provided to 131 baccalaureate nursing students. BACKGROUND: The STCW was designed and implemented through a collaboration between the artistic director of the Big Apple Circus and nurse faculty to help students understand emotions, learn peripheral awareness skills, and become engaged with patients. METHOD: Forty participants responded to an 18-month follow-up evaluation survey. RESULTS: The majority of participants reported applying lessons learned in the workshop in their current practice, regardless of their area of nursing employment. CONCLUSION: The STCW is an effective method of educating nursing students for pediatric practice. The techniques used in the workshop are applicable to other practice settings.
AIM: The aim of this study was to examine the long-term effectiveness of the Sensitivity Training Clown Workshop (STCW) provided to 131 baccalaureate nursing students. BACKGROUND: The STCW was designed and implemented through a collaboration between the artistic director of the Big Apple Circus and nurse faculty to help students understand emotions, learn peripheral awareness skills, and become engaged with patients. METHOD: Forty participants responded to an 18-month follow-up evaluation survey. RESULTS: The majority of participants reported applying lessons learned in the workshop in their current practice, regardless of their area of nursing employment. CONCLUSION: The STCW is an effective method of educating nursing students for pediatric practice. The techniques used in the workshop are applicable to other practice settings.