ABSTRACT
Ideas for alternative clinical experiences include: Shadowing a clinical nurse educator, a wound care nurse, a nurse manager, or by visiting a specialty center such a radiation oncology center or hemodialysis unit. When students participate in an alternative assignment there must be a defined written assignment associated with the experience. This focuses a student’s learning and promotes their engagement. Assignments need to be meaningful and add an additional dimension to patient care. For advanced clinical groups who have more clinical experience and are near the end of their program, generally in a final, or capstone course, a student may be assigned a team leadership role. When a student completes the team leader “day” instructor must evaluate their performance managing of a group of student nurses, who are their “staff”, and patients. A discussion of successes and challenges of the experience should be included.
