John J. Barcklow Foundation Spirituality in Geriatric Nursing
Fairfield University and its School of Nursing recently received a $5,000 grant from the John J. Barcklow Foundation to design and implement a clinical rotation within the current geriatric course in spring, 2005, focusing specific emphasis on the development of resident spirituality within long-term care. Dr. Meredith Wallace, Assistant Professor of nursing at Fairfield University will lead the team.
Purpose
The purpose of this grant is to design and implement a clinical rotation within the current geriatric course in spring, 2005, with a substantial emphasis on Christian integrity. Specifically, ten selected students and faculty members will be educated in faith-based nursing care through consultation with nursing experts specializing in this area. Low-income (Medicaid recipients) in one faith-based nursing home will be selected as the recipients of this specialized faith-based care. After the initial educational program, students will provide faith-based nursing care for residents each week, and will meet with trained faculty to discuss their ability to meet the pilot and course objectives. Through this exciting and essential integration of spirituality into the theoretical and clinical components of the geriatric course, a substantial gap will be filled and sustainability ensured. Presentation and publication of this pilot program to other faith-based universities will also be pursued.
Grant Objectives
- Faculty, students and members of the University community will be educated in spiritual nursing care.
- Students and faculty will implement newly gained spirituality educational base into the care of older adults in long-term care.
- Students and residents will demonstrate improved spiritual well-being as a result of the program.
- Project outcomes and experiences will be disseminated.
Mission of the John J. Barcklow Foundation
The John J. Barcklow Foundation is a robust, full-service non-profit support organization that provides a wide range of services and products to promote compassion and quality of life for the elderly.
Contact Information
Meredith Wallace PhD, APRN
Assistant Professor and Principal Investigator
Phone - (203) 254-4000, ext. 2719
E-mail - mwallace@mail.fairfield.edu
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