Assessing the Value of the Follow-Through Family Project for Students and Families

Abstract

Although not a new teaching strategy, the followthrough family assignment is receiving renewed attention from maternity nursing faculty in light of shorter hospital stays and increased competition for clinical sites. The purpose of this evaluation study was to assess the project's value as a learning experience for students and to determine its benefits for participating families. The findings indicate that students enjoyed establishing therapeutic relationships with their families and helping childbearing families answer health care questions. Students developed primary care skills, increased their self-confidence, and developed an appreciation of childbearing as a transition event for the family. Families appreciated students' educational support and individualized assistance. Families also enjoyed feeling that they had helped their student nurses learn. Overall, the benefits of the followthrough family project appear to outweigh the costs for both students and families.