Bridging the experience-complexity gap with longitudinal clinical placements

Abstract

Background

Clinical learning is a critical element to prepare nursing students for the profession. There is limited evidence on the experience-complexity gap among novice nursing students entering the workforce.

Purpose

This study aimed to implement a novel longitudinal clinical experience program and examined readiness for practice for undergraduate nursing students.

Methods

We used a prospective cohort design using the Casey-Fink Readiness for Practice survey.

Findings

There have been 2,004 clinical placements filled since the start of the program. Repeated exposure at one organization provided consistency and continuity while allowing students to develop relationships with patients and staff in a variety of settings. The medical-surgical two clinical experience was a pivotal course that influenced students’ perception to enter the nursing workforce.

Discussion

Clinical and academic partners must collaborate to provide the necessary competencies required to enter the workforce. Longitudinal clinical programs may improve nursing students readiness for practice.

Conclusion

The continous and immersive nature of the longitudinal clinical experience program facilitated the development of critical thinking skills and clinical competence, suggesting that longitudinal clinical placements can bridge the experience-complexity gap in nursing education.