Promoting positive student clinical experiences with older adults through use of group reminiscence therapy

Interest in psychiatric nursing as a practice area is associated with positive undergraduate clinical experiences that include staff acceptance, diverse learning opportunities, direct involvement with patients, and community placements. Essential student preparedness includes attitudes affirmative of patient recovery; assessment, communication, teaching, and medication administration and monitoring skills; and a toolkit of nursing interventions such as group facilitation and reminiscence therapy. In an innovative intervention, students in a geriatric psychiatric community setting developed and facilitated a support group with reminiscence-based activities to reduce social isolation. Patients increased social interactions, and students gained awareness of older adults' interests and self-identities, as well as confidence in providing care.