PhD defence A. (Anita) Lunde

Below is a brief summary of the dissertation:

Nurses are increasingly expected to care for the whole person, addressing not only physical symptoms but also emotional, social, and personal needs. Some patients also use complementary therapies, such as massage, meditation, or relaxation techniques, alongside conventional healthcare. Integrative nursing combines conventional care with evidence-informed complementary approaches to support patients’ overall well-being.
This PhD project explored how integrative nursing can be included in nursing education and how nursing students can develop the competencies needed to provide this type of care. The project reviewed educational programs from different countries and surveyed nursing experts across Europe. The findings showed that teaching about complementary therapies is often offered as optional courses rather than being integrated into nursing education. Based on these findings, 24 learning goals were developed and validated by a European panel of experts. These goals describe the knowledge, skills, and professional attitudes needed for integrative nursing practice. They focus on understanding selected complementary therapies, communicating with patients about their use, reflecting on ethical issues, and promoting self-care among nurses.
The learning goals were used to develop an Integrative Nursing Handbook for educators and a nursing course at a Danish University College. Students who participated in the course reported positive learning experiences and said it broadened their understanding of nursing and patient care. Overall, the project suggests that integrative nursing education can help future nurses provide more holistic and patient-centered care. Further research is needed to support wider implementation across Europe.