Document Type

Dissertation

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Major

Nursing

Date of Defense

3-19-2019

Graduate Advisor

Dr. Laura Kuensting

Committee

Dr. Laura Kuensting

Dr. Natalie Murphy

Dr. Roxanne Vandermause

Abstract

Problem: Human trafficking (HT) is a significant worldwide and domestic issue affecting all ages, races, and genders resulting in over 40 million victims globally. Nurse practitioners (NP) often unknowingly come into contact with victims of HT, however, few NP’s have had formal education on the topic and may fail to recognize signs and risk factors. The purpose of this study was to initiate HT training for NP students.

Methods: A quality improvement (QI) initiative for a university college of nursing (CON) utilizing a prospective, observational, descriptive, cohort design. A plan-do-study-act (PDSA) methodology was implemented. A written case study given before an educational session and an objective structured clinical exam (OSCE) after the educational session involving a victim of HT were evaluated.

Results: Grading rubrics for the pre-education written case study were compared to the grading rubrics of the post-education OSCE’s. A paired samples t-test found statistical significance (p

Implications: Including HT education in an NP curriculum assisted students to become aware of and recognize signs and indicators of HT. Written case studies and use of an OSCE were an effective means for evaluating learning. As NP’s graduate and begin to practice, further study on their awareness, ability to recognize risk factors and indicators, and providing assistance to victims of HT is recommended.

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