Implementation of training to senior-level, undergraduate nursing students on trauma-informed care for sexual assault survivors

The aim of this research was to provide nursing students with the tools to better respond to sexually assaulted survivors using trauma-informed care practices. Sexual assault continues to be a global public health crisis affecting both men and women, though disproportionately, it is experienced by more women. Many of these survivors seek medical and emotional care at crisis centers, clinics, and hospitals. However, little attention has been given towards educating medical and nursing students on how to appropriately and properly assess and care for these survivors in the clinical setting. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing, a body that regulates nursing education in the United States, through its new Essentials, has charged nursing educators to include training on person-centered care that includes compassionate, holistic, individualized, just, and respectful care. The research was analyzed using a mixed method study with a quasi-experimental framework. Students reported an increase in comfort in providing care for sexual assault survivors after completing trauma-informed care training. Nursing educators can continue to explore trauma-informed care training for students to better prepare them for providing care to sexual assault survivors.