Implementation of a University Based Wellness Program in Response to Pandemic Related Loss of Community Nutrition Supervised Practice Rotations

Abstract

Describe the implementation of a university program that provides research and community supervised practice hours for dietetic students enrolled in a coordinated program. The COVID-19 pandemic affected our lives unprecedentedly. Social distancing measures forced schools, community centers, and hospitals to limit access to supervised practice (SP) rotations for Dietetic students. Placement opportunities were scarce, and program directors switched to case studies or virtual experiences to meet ACEND standards. The Rowan University (RU) Coordinated Master’s Program in Dietetics (CP) had identified the need for a sustainable nutrition program on our campus. Program goals would include meeting the community’s nutrition needs, providing nutrition research opportunities, and facilitating community nutrition SP hours for students. The CP director discussed the program framework with colleagues. RU faculty and staff were selected as the target population. The program started with Dietetic students drafting a survey to explore the impact of COVID-19 related stress on the wellbeing of RU personnel. Questions were developed according to the Health Belief Model constructs. Faculty provided face and content validity and participated in cognitive interviews during the questionnaire development. The finalized survey was distributed to RU personnel via email lists. Survey responses revealed that RU personnel acknowledge COVID-19 related stress, deterioration of health, barriers/enablers to wellness, and interest in virtual wellness programs. Survey outcomes identified the need for various virtual programs like cooking demos and healthy eating. Students developed a logo, videos, and a cookbook in collaboration with RU advertising and video production departments. Data analytics from video views and post-view surveys provided feedback for future products. Expansion plans include virtual nutrition programs geared toward RU students and the university professional community.