A Mixed-Methods Approach to Assessing the Effectiveness of Palliative Care Education for Nursing Students

Palliative care education is an essential component of nursing curricula, though its delivery and effectiveness vary across institutions. This study employed a mixed-methods approach to evaluate the impact of a palliative care education module on nursing students' knowledge, attitudes, and emotional preparedness. A total of 120 Bachelor of Science in Nursing students were assessed before and after the module using pre- and post-tests, attitude surveys, and focus group interviews. Quantitative results demonstrated a significant improvement in students' knowledge of palliative care principles, with post-test scores increasing by 23.9%. Attitude surveys indicated enhanced confidence and empathy in providing end-of-life care. Qualitative findings from focus group interviews revealed greater emotional sensitivity, improved communication skills, and deeper awareness of ethical issues related to palliative care. Students reported increased preparedness to manage the complexities of caring for terminally ill patients. However, some participants also encountered emotional challenges, particularly in discussing death and dying, underscoring the need for additional support mechanisms within the curriculum. The integration of cognitive and emotional training through both theoretical instruction and experiential learning proved effective in enhancing students' competencies. These findings affirm the value of structured palliative care education in preparing nursing students for real-world clinical practice. Future curricula should prioritize a balanced approach that addresses both the technical and emotional demands of end-of-life care. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term effects of such training on clinical performance and emotional resilience.