Page 93 - GHR_NursingCMU2024_Final.indd

Nursing Students and Mentors’ Perceptions of Research, Quality Improvement,
and Policy Honors and Fellow Programs

1
1
N. Lukkahatai, S. Allgood, and N. Barolin 1
1
School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, United States

Background: Integrating research, quality improvement (QI) and policy into nursing education
enhances students’ critical thinking, communication skills and prepares them for evidence-based
practice and policy impact. Including these important element as honor programs within nursing
education, provide opportunities for mentorship, collaboration with faculty members, and
participation in research, QI, and policy initiatives. To inform future program development, an
understanding of the programs effectiveness, strengths, and areas for enhancement is needed.

Objective: This study aimed to explore students’ and mentors’ perceptions and satisfaction of the
program, its impact on their nursing education, and their experiences participating in research, QI, and
policy endeavors.

Oral Presentation Abstracts
Methods: A retrospective review of program evaluations over the past 5 semesters focused on
anonymous course evaluations from nursing students (a total of 50 responses) and mentor
discussions involved in the research honors, Fuld Fellowship (QI) and policy honor programs at a
university nursing school. Data analysis identified key themes regarding program effectiveness,
student engagement, mentorship experiences, and perceived benefits and challenges.

Results: Results showed positive perceptions from both students and mentors regarding the honors
and fellowship programs. Students demonstrated high engagement in research, QI, and policy
activities, enhancing critical thinking, communication, and policy analysis skills, and expressing
satisfaction with mentorship support. Mentors found guiding students rewarding and appreciated
support to advance their work. Themes include critical thinking, policy analysis, connecting clinical
experience to health systems, confidence in research, and appreciation for evidence-based practice.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that the honors and fellowship program effectively engage nursing
students and mentors in research, QI, and policy initiatives, enhancing their skills to contribute to
nursing science and effect change in health systems and policies. These programs offer valuable
learning experiences and mentorship support, fostering professional growth and interdisciplinary
engagement. Such programs offer a model for nursing education, facilitating contributions to nursing
science and navigating healthcare systems.

Keywords: nursing education, scholarly engagement, mentorship

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Correspondence: Nada Lukkahatai, School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, United States
E-mail: nada.lukkahatai@jhu.edu

91