Potential outcomes of clinical experience

This exploratory study examined potential outcomes of clinical experience. Sixteen baccalaureate nursing students completed data collection instruments. The eight students in the control group completed the clinical course as prescribed in the curriculum; the eight students in the experimental group received no assigned clinical experience. The first hypothesis, that there would be an increase in the identification of accurate clinical nursing judgments as a result of clinical experience, was not supported. The second hypothesis, that there would be progress in the development of professional identity as a result of clinical experience, was not supported. Analysis of demographic and secondary data supports a conclusion that the learning outcomes of clinical experience have yet to be identified.