Clinical immersion: a residency model for nursing education

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Reform
• Program Development

Background:

• Current nursing education requires transformation to meet evolving healthcare demands.
• The Nurse Residency Model (NRM) is a proposed solution for baccalaureate nursing programs.
• The NRM emphasizes collegiality and lifelong learning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the Nurse Residency Model as a response to calls for reform in nursing education.
• To outline the philosophical underpinnings and unique features of the NRM.
• To highlight the intended benefits of the NRM, including improved patient safety and resource efficiency.

Main Methods:

• The NRM integrates enhanced socialization, improved transition to practice, and increased student accountability.
• Program features include field experiences, simulation labs, and a work requirement.
• Student competency and accountability increase progressively throughout the program.

Main Results:

• The model aims to foster increased student competency and accountability.
• Clinical immersion is a key component of the senior year.
• Expected outcomes include resource efficiency and enhanced patient safety.

Conclusions:

• The Nurse Residency Model represents a significant programmatic shift in nursing education.
• Ongoing implementation and outcome indicator data collection are crucial.
• The NRM has the potential to build an evidence base for nursing education reform.