Recorded presentation

Lori A. Edwards, MPH, RN, APRN, BC, School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, 525 N. Wolfe St, Room 453, Baltimore, MD 21205, 410-614-2418, ledwards@son.jhmi.edu

Advancing the profession of nursing and the health of populations is one of the main goals for educating nurses about complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). With this knowledge, public health nurses are better able to address health needs from a holistic framework. At Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, an elective course, “Introduction to Complementary and Alternative Health Care” has been offered for over 6 years. This was the first and remains the only clinically focused course in CAM at the medical institutions. Over 200 students, baccalaureate and graduate, have been educated about CAM. They report using these experiences in their careers. A descriptive analysis of how these students, now nurses, have integrated CAM into their nursing practice will be reported. A majority are working in public health. They report that cultural aspects of CAM modalities facilitates culturally appropriate care with diverse populations. Not only are students provided with an overview of CAM, but they have several opportunities to experience modalities. After experiential learning several students report integrating CAM into their personal health, which promotes self-care for nurses. Selected students have pursued advanced education in CAM. Student career paths will also be described. Further expanding CAM education into School of Nursing courses is now occurring. With an estimated 70% of the world that receives non-western health care, it is increasingly important for nurses to know CAM to promote global health.

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