A spark of change: developing an innovative gerontological nursing intervention mapping initiative for training and education (IGNITE).

BACKGROUND: With an aging global population and advancements in medical technology, there is an urgent need for innovative gerontological nursing education programs. This study aimed to develop and evaluate the Innovative Gerontological Nursing Intervention Mapping Initiative for Training and Education (IGNITE) program. This program is a digital platform-based postgraduate nursing curriculum that employs the Intervention Mapping Approach (IMA) and Transformative Learning Theory to address the evolving needs of gerontological nursing.

METHODS: The IGNITE program's development process encompassed a comprehensive approach, including needs assessment, mapping of course objectives, integration of theory-based methods and strategies, course design, implementation, and rigorous evaluation. The pilot evaluation study involved pre- and post-tests focused on ageism, attitudes towards elder care, knowledge about older adults, transformative behavior change, and program satisfaction. The findings revealed significant improvements across all these dimensions, affirming the effectiveness of the program.

RESULTS: The program leveraged experiential learning, critical reflection, and rational discourse to facilitate transformative educational experiences. Notably, pre- and post-test comparisons showed marked improvements in attitudes towards older adult care and dementia care knowledge. Participants expressed high satisfaction with the program, with significant reported changes in transformative behaviors. The study also illuminated the initial negative attitudes of clinical nurses towards older adults and underscored the importance of transformative learning experiences in fostering empathy and understanding.

CONCLUSIONS: The IGNITE program lays a foundational framework for developing educational materials that promote transformative learning and self-reflection among healthcare professionals. This approach can lead to innovative nursing practices and personal growth. The application of the IMA and Transformative Learning Theory in gerontological nursing education shows significant promise. Future research should focus on exploring the long-term impacts of such programs and their applicability in diverse healthcare settings.