Evaluating the virtual dementia tour with undergraduate nursing students using the RE-AIM framework.

BACKGROUND

As the U.S. population ages, the incidence of Alzheimer's and dementia is expected to increase to more than nine million Americans by 2030. The virtual dementia tour (VDT®) simulation program is an innovative educational strategy used to improve nursing students' perception of dementia experience thereby enhancing patient centered care.

SAMPLE: 143 Nursing students in an accelerated BSN program.

METHODS

Conducted as a pilot, VDT was delivered to undergraduate nursing students using the RE-AIM Framework. A pre/post survey examines student's experience of the care needs of patients with Dementia.

RESULTS

The results indicated a significant difference from pre-to-post response ranging (p-value <2,2e-16 to 5.84e-16) and the median difference estimated to be 2.99, with 95% confidence interval.

CONCLUSION

This feasibility study highlights VDT® is a valuable training method to support dementia care education. Results inform phase 2 of the future delivery of the VDT® in community and public health agencies.