Researching the Effectiveness of an Online Human Trafficking Awareness Program Among Community Health Nursing Students

Author: Hoffman, Jenni & Argeros, Grigoris

Abstract: The purpose of the research was to evaluate the effectiveness of an online human trafficking awareness program for healthcare providers. A mixed-methods study design was conducted with a sample (N=141) consisting of community health nursing students, who completed a pretest, watched one three-minute video a day for 20 days, and completed a posttest. Participants indicated their knowledge of human trafficking increased, attitudes toward victims improved, and competence and confidence engaging with victims increased. Satisfaction with program, and information utilization plans for practice were revealed. Human trafficking awareness program was effective in increasing participants’ knowledge, competence and confidence, and improving attitudes. Educational intervention is a strategy to improve students’ knowledge of human trafficking.

Keywords: assault, public health, sexual assault, trauma-informed care, trauma-informed care principles, trauma services