The clinical role of nurse teachers within a Project 2000 course framework

This paper reports on part of a national study that was conducted over a 3-year period (1991-1994). The overall aim of the study was to explore the changing role of the nurse teacher. Multiple methods of data collection were used, including a modified Delphi survey, a case study and telephone interviews. The sample included a wide variety of respondents (nurse teachers, midwife teachers, clinical nurses, health service managers and higher education lecturers). Findings in relation to the clinical role of the nurse teacher within a Project 2000 course framework are presented. This includes the nature of the clinical role, views on linking theory and practice, and potential barriers to the nurse teacher's clinical role. The future role of nurse teachers within the clinical area is discussed and this includes suggestions for the ways in which a nurse teacher's clinical commitment could be facilitated. Issues relating to the role of lecturer/practitioner are also highlighted.