By Christine Westland, Clinical Nurse Specialist

On May 2, I had the privilege of speaking with 170 nursing students heading into their year-end acute care practicum. The presentation focus was Trauma Informed Care, with the opportunity of integrating the information into their own nursing practice. We commenced with an introduction of First Nations nursing in BC and proceeded with an introduction of the BC Trauma Informed Practice (TIP) Guidelines. The discussion transitioned to address the legacy of the Indian Residential Schools, specifically how intergenerational and historic trauma affects many First Nations people while contacting acute care hospital staff. Our discussions concluded with the students developing strategies to include TIP when caring for First Nations community members. We're enthusiastic about the resources developed to learn more about the legacy of Indian Residential Schools. I always enjoy teaching students and I believe it’s a crucial part of my job as a Clinical Nurse Specialist.