Public Health Nursing Clinical on an American Indian Reservation

Health care institutions used by a large Midwestern university for clinical experiences provide limited opportunities for students to interact with diverse populations. To address this, a select group of baccalaureate nursing students are able to complete their public health nursing clinical course on the Navajo Nation Reservation. A poster presentation will explore preparatory work, activities carried out on the reservation, and learning outcomes. Prior to traveling to Arizona, students research a health concern of importance to Native American populations. While the literature search may include articles specific to the Navajo, the paper focuses more broadly on an issue as it pertains to Native Americans. While on the reservation, students explore their specific health topic with the Navajo population and compare findings to those reported in the literature. Mechanisms students used to identify, design, and deliver health teaching materials at a local flea market will be outlined. The significance of the experience on the development of culturally aware nursing practice by novice practitioners will also be addressed.