Interprofessional education for undergraduate students

Collaborative practice is an essential component of public health nursing. Using an interprofessional collaboration process, community health nursing and social work faculty developed joint classroom instruction and clinical experiences for their students. In partnership with a neighborhood organization, the undergraduate nursing and social work students conducted a community assessment and recommended a plan of action. Analysis of the student collaborative practice revealed both similarities and differences in role perceptions, group process, problem solving, and discipline-specific values and attitudes. Logistical concerns revolved around student scheduling and communications. Based on the analysis, specific recommendations are provided for faculty in developing student collaborative experiences across disciplines.