Shifting Perspectives: How Clinical Immersion Shapes Nursing Students’ Views Toward Those Experiencing Homelessness
Abstract/Description/Artist Statement
Background There is a growing population of those experiencing homelessness in the United States. These individuals face significant health disparities, resulting in poor health outcomes. Additionally, they experience negative perceptions from society, including healthcare professionals, which can adversely affect their health and well-being. Nurses are well-equipped to serve this population due to their dedication to holistic, person-centered care. Nursing students at all degree levels study the social determinants of health. However, many students graduate without having had the opportunity to interact with some of their most vulnerable community members, including those who are experiencing homelessness, who face these unique challenges daily. In addition, little is known about nursing students' attitudes and perceptions toward those experiencing homelessness at different degree levels, specifically prior to and following a clinical experience that allows students to interact with this population.
Methods: This research study is based at a free and charitable clinic that is faculty-run, and nurse led and is operated by the Old Dominion University Community Care Clinic at People in Need Ministry in Virginia Beach Virginia. The clinic addresses acute, chronic, and preventive health needs for a patient population that is primarily experiencing homelessness. Nursing students at all degree levels have the opportunity to complete clinical hours at this site and become active members of the healthcare team. This study utilizes a prospective pre-experimental design that includes both pre- and post-analysis. From June of 2025 to December of 2025 on their first clinical day, students were asked to complete a pre-survey questionnaire and on their final day they were asked to complete a post-survey.
Outcomes: Data collection and analysis is currently in progress and will be completed in time for the 2026 Knowledge and Creativity Expo. Pre- and post-survey analysis will capture changes in students’ perceptions, empathy, and perceived ability to care for those experiencing homelessness. Post-survey open-ended questions will provide qualitative insights into students’ reflections on the clinical experience.
Conclusion: By engaging directly with vulnerable populations, nursing students at all levels not only cultivate empathy and reduce stigma but also develop the skills needed to provide compassionate, high-quality care for those experiencing homelessness.
Faculty Advisor/Mentor
Tine Gustin
Faculty Advisor/Mentor Email
tgustin@odu.edu
Faculty Advisor/Mentor Department
Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences Ellmer School of Nursing at Old Dominion University
College/School Affiliation
Ellmer School of Nursing
Student Level Group
Graduate/Professional
Presentation Type
Poster
Shifting Perspectives: How Clinical Immersion Shapes Nursing Students’ Views Toward Those Experiencing Homelessness
Background There is a growing population of those experiencing homelessness in the United States. These individuals face significant health disparities, resulting in poor health outcomes. Additionally, they experience negative perceptions from society, including healthcare professionals, which can adversely affect their health and well-being. Nurses are well-equipped to serve this population due to their dedication to holistic, person-centered care. Nursing students at all degree levels study the social determinants of health. However, many students graduate without having had the opportunity to interact with some of their most vulnerable community members, including those who are experiencing homelessness, who face these unique challenges daily. In addition, little is known about nursing students' attitudes and perceptions toward those experiencing homelessness at different degree levels, specifically prior to and following a clinical experience that allows students to interact with this population.
Methods: This research study is based at a free and charitable clinic that is faculty-run, and nurse led and is operated by the Old Dominion University Community Care Clinic at People in Need Ministry in Virginia Beach Virginia. The clinic addresses acute, chronic, and preventive health needs for a patient population that is primarily experiencing homelessness. Nursing students at all degree levels have the opportunity to complete clinical hours at this site and become active members of the healthcare team. This study utilizes a prospective pre-experimental design that includes both pre- and post-analysis. From June of 2025 to December of 2025 on their first clinical day, students were asked to complete a pre-survey questionnaire and on their final day they were asked to complete a post-survey.
Outcomes: Data collection and analysis is currently in progress and will be completed in time for the 2026 Knowledge and Creativity Expo. Pre- and post-survey analysis will capture changes in students’ perceptions, empathy, and perceived ability to care for those experiencing homelessness. Post-survey open-ended questions will provide qualitative insights into students’ reflections on the clinical experience.
Conclusion: By engaging directly with vulnerable populations, nursing students at all levels not only cultivate empathy and reduce stigma but also develop the skills needed to provide compassionate, high-quality care for those experiencing homelessness.