INTEGRATION OF TRAUMA-INFORMED APPROACH INTO NURSING EDUCATION: PREPARING FUTURE NURSES FOR PSYCHOSOCIAL SUPPORT OF PATIENTS

Abstract

Introduction. The increasing number of patients who have experienced traumatic events poses a significant challenge to the healthcare system. Nurses, often serving as the primary point of support for patients, face heightened demands for professional training and emotional resilience. In this context, a trauma-informed approach becomes particularly important. It aims to create a safe environment for trauma-affected patients while reducing the risk of emotional burnout among healthcare professionals. The relevance of implementing this approach in nursing practice and education is driven by the need to improve the quality of medical care and psychosocial support.

The aim of the study – to explore the significance and feasibility of integrating a trauma-informed approach into the educational process of preparing future nurses. To assess its impact on the effectiveness of psychosocial support for patients, the reduction of emotional burnout, and the enhancement of professional resilience among healthcare workers.

The main part. The article analyzes the primary challenges nurses face when working with trauma-affected patients. In particular, it examines the phenomenon of secondary traumatization, which can arise from prolonged contact with patients who have experienced trauma. Special attention is given to the issue of emotional burnout, which significantly reduces the quality of medical care and negatively impacts the professional development of nurses. The study presents survey results from students of medical educational institutions, revealing insufficient knowledge regarding trauma-informed care. The article emphasizes the importance of incorporating specialized courses on trauma-informed approaches into nursing curricula, including topics such as the psychological impact of trauma, the development of empathy, active listening skills, and stress management.

Conclusions. Implementing a trauma-informed approach in the educational process is a strategically important step in preparing nurses to work with trauma-affected patients. This will help create conditions for quality psychosocial support, reduce the level of professional burnout, and improve patient outcomes. Integrating this approach into nursing education is a key to enhancing the quality of healthcare and the professional growth of nurses.