Evidence-Based Virtual Learning Experiences for the Clinical Nurse Leader Capstone

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Management
• Online Learning Technologies

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted traditional healthcare delivery and nursing education.
• Hospitals halted on-site clinical placements for nursing students due to infection control concerns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To adapt a direct entry Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program for Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) students to a virtual capstone format.
• To ensure graduating students could meet essential capstone learning requirements despite pandemic-related restrictions.

Main Methods:

• An evidence-based approach was employed, drawing from literature reviews.
• Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) competencies and resources from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing guided the virtual experience design.

Main Results:

• Nursing students successfully achieved their intended learning outcomes within the virtual capstone environment.
• Students reported a high degree of satisfaction with the virtual learning activities and their effectiveness.

Conclusions:

• Virtual learning modalities proved crucial for maintaining nursing education continuity during the pandemic.
• These virtual experiences offer a viable supplement or alternative to traditional clinical placements when site availability is limited.