Collaborative efforts: developing clinical experiences for nursing students in public sector settings

In the present paper we described the Nurse Academic Collaboration Task Force, which was formed in 1989 by the Texas Mental Health and Mental Retardation (TXMHMR) Commissioner in order to facilitate linkages between academia and state facilities. These efforts have led to increased academic collaboration and linkage with facilities. The task force has identified areas of practice opportunities for all levels of student education programs as well as barriers to collaboration. Collaborative strategies may also lead to better nurse recruitment efforts by TXMHMR facilities. Finally, these educational experiences should prepare nurses in varied settings to provide care for individuals with mental retardation.