A case for collaborative networks for clinical nurse educators.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Workforce Development
• Professional Collaboration

Background:

• Clinical Nurse Educators (CNEs) experience role isolation and overwhelm.
• Lack of role clarity contributes to job dissatisfaction among CNEs.
• Existing support structures for CNEs are often inadequate.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current context and challenges faced by CNEs.
• To propose collaborative networks as a strategy to improve CNE role satisfaction.
• To advocate for enhanced intersectoral collaboration between CNEs and Academic Nurse Educators.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of the CNE role and its challenges.
• Conceptualization of collaborative network models for CNEs.
• Exploration of benefits of intersectoral collaboration.

Main Results:

• Collaborative networks offer potential for role clarity and reduced isolation.
• Networks can facilitate shared resources, reduce work duplication, and provide mentorship.
• Intersectoral collaboration can boost research capacity and knowledge translation.

Conclusions:

• Collaborative networks are a viable strategy to address CNE role dissatisfaction.
• Enhanced partnerships between CNEs and Academic Nurse Educators can benefit both sectors.
• Strengthening CNE support systems is crucial for frontline nursing education and care delivery.