Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Projects
Access Control
Open Access
Degree Program
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Degree Track
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)
Year Degree Awarded
2021
DOI
https://doi.org/10.7275/22749481
Month Degree Awarded
May
Keywords
Combat Veteran, Military culture, Military cultural competence, United States Marine Corps, Navy, Army, Air Force, Cultural Competence, Civilian Clinician
Advisor
Gabrielle Abelard, DNP, PMHNP, PMHCNS-BC, RN, BSN
DNP Project Chair
Gabrielle Abelard, DNP, PMHNP, PMHCNS-BC, RN, BSN
Abstract
Abstract
Background and Review of Literature: United States Veterans are a unique population of individuals who require specialized mental health care. A review of literature revealed the Veteran population is primarily treated by civilian providers in the community who are often unaware of the impact of military culture on Veterans. Since this lack of awareness can be very disruptive to treatment and ultimately to the healing process, there is a need for advocacy related to the cultural ramifications of military service. Purpose: The DNP project goal was to increase civilian provider knowledge of the Veteran’s experience. Method: The project was developed and executed over a one-year period and included an education intervention of a one hour long Military Culture Curriculum with Toolkit for 36 civilian providers who are caring for Veterans in community mental health clinics. Civilian providers were issued identical surveys before and after an educational intervention. The Toolkit was provided via email after the zoom session for “at your figure tip” access to the screening tool. Results: The results were analyzed using a paired t-test, and included qualitative results from written and verbal participant feedback. Although the survey results were not statistically significant, results were overwhelmingly positive and affirmed that the education was important and well received. Implications/Conclusion: Civilian providers who are educated regarding military culture will have better insight and knowledge to improve advocacy and care for the Veteran population.
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