Implementing Innovative Precepted Clinical Placements Through Partnership Between Academia and Practice

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Clinical Learning
• Healthcare Workforce Development

Background:

• Traditional instructor-led group models for clinical nursing education in Canada are insufficient given recent healthcare system changes.
• Healthcare system pressures necessitate innovative approaches to clinical learning delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel precepted placement model to improve access to quality clinical learning experiences for nursing students.
• To address the need for innovative clinical learning strategies in nursing education.

Main Methods:

• Collaboration between academic institutions (School of Nursing) and practice partners.
• Implementation of a precepted placement model where students are paired one-on-one with a preceptor.
• Utilizing collaborative communication and change management strategies.

Main Results:

• The precepted placement model was successfully developed and implemented within 18 months.
• The model supports over 1,000 nursing students across various placement experiences.
• Essential collaboration with practice partners was key to the strategy's success.

Conclusions:

• Precepted placements offer immersive learning experiences that optimize student learning.
• This model fosters stronger partnerships between nursing students, academia, and the regional nursing workforce.
• Collaborative efforts between academia and practice facilitated the successful implementation of this educational change.