Perceptions of and Experiences in a Clinical Externship Program During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Workforce Development
• Pandemic Response

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic created critical health human resource shortages.
• Clinical externship programs were implemented to support healthcare organizations.
• Nursing students were hired as unregulated care providers to meet staffing demands.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the experiences of clinical externs, coordinators, and managers in a newly developed externship program.
• To identify key factors for successful integration of nursing students into healthcare settings.
• To evaluate the program's effectiveness in addressing workforce challenges.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study design utilizing semi-structured interviews.
• Involved clinical externs, extern mentor coordinators, and unit managers.
• Thematic analysis of interview data to identify key themes.

Main Results:

• Five major themes emerged, including the critical importance of comprehensive orientation.
• The need for enhanced role clarity for clinical externs was a significant finding.
• Participants highlighted the program's value for student preparedness and healthcare system support.

Conclusions:

• Clinical externship programs are a viable strategy to mitigate health human resource challenges.
• Structured orientation and defined roles are essential for successful extern integration.
• These programs enhance nursing student readiness and contribute to workforce stability.