RN-BS Students’ Reports of Their Self-Care and Health-Promotion Practices in a Holistic Nursing Course

Abstract

Purpose: This study explored RN-BS students’ self-care and health-promotion (SCHP) practices in a semester-long holistic nursing course with emphasis on the utility of self-reflection through journal writing. Design: A qualitative single case study blended in practical action research. Method: Fifteen RN-BS students enrolled in the holistic nursing course completed (a) three reflective journal entries (beginning, midterm, and conclusion); (b) two IHWA-short form surveys (beginning and conclusion); and (c) one demographic form (beginning) of the course. Findings: Three reflective journals indicated that students’ understanding of their SCHP practices progressed from novice, to advanced, and finally to competent from the beginning, middle, and at the conclusion of the course. Four findings emerged in relation to reports of their SCHP practices: (a) new awareness of self, (b) application of SCHP practices knowledge, (c) role modeling, and (d) dedication to SCHP practices beyond the semester. Four findings emerged in relation to participation in the reflective journaling about reports of their SCHP practices: (a) self-discovery, (b) retrospective self-evaluation, (c) useful intervention for SCHP, and (d) beneficial learning tool in academic environment. Conclusions: Reflective journaling enhanced students’ SCHP practices and was recognized as useful instructional strategy to improve learning in the classroom.