Transformative learning experience among nursing students with patients acting as teachers: Mixed methods, non-randomized, single-arm study

AIM: To examine the effects of expert HIV patients acting as teachers to Spanish nursing students both on their HIV-related knowledge, attitudes and practices and on their approach to the care model as well as to explore their learning experience.

DESIGN: Non-randomized, single-arm study with quantitative before and after measurements and qualitative data.

METHODS: The intervention consisted of five 90-min workshops led by two women living with HIV. Thirty-four nursing students participated, and quantitative and qualitative data were gathered from February to June 2018. We used the Patient-Practitioner Orientation Scale (PPOS) and the KAP questionnaire on HIV/AIDS to collect quantitative data.

RESULTS: Statistically significant differences were found in the global score for care orientation and its two dimensions, caring and sharing. About the changes resulting from the workshops, the quantitative results-more patient-centred care perception and better attitudes towards people living with HIV-match the qualitative findings in all the aspects studied, except in sharing.

CONCLUSION: Incorporating expert patients as teachers in the nursing bachelor's degree resulted in more patient-centred care and improved knowledge, attitudes and practices. The workshops conducted by qualified expert patients showed transformative learning power, as the participants improved professional and personal aspects.