Open AccessNutrition Students’ Experiences of Interprofessional Learning in a Nursing Home
Author(s) -
Ella Marie Heyerdahl,
Marte Ottesen,
Marianne Molin,
Christine Hillestad Hestevik,
Venke Sörlie,
Gerd Sylvi Sellevold
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
journal of research in interprofessional practice and education
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 1916-7342
DOI - 10.22230/jripe.2020v10n1a305
Subject(s) - bachelor , interprofessional education , focus group , nursing , qualitative research , medicine , medical education , psychology , interpretative phenomenological analysis , theme (computing) , health professionals , health care , sociology , social science , archaeology , anthropology , computer science , economics , history , economic growth , operating system
Background: Interprofessional experience is vitally important for nutrition students, as nutritionists often find themselves working independently in a team with other professionals. Few studies have explored qualitatively how nutrition students perceive learning activities in an interprofessional setting.Methods and Findings: Third-year bachelor’s degree nutrition students participated in a focus group interview after interprofessional learning in a nursing home. A qualitative study with a phenomenological-hermeneutical approach was conducted to investigate lived experiences. One theme emerged from the data analysis: A professional understanding of oneself and others. Being acknowledged as a professional, being an active participant, and collaborating to enhance resident care were revealed as sub-themes.Conclusions: A short period of interprofessional learning in an authentic setting may expand students’ experiences and enhance professional confidence.