Transition to Nursing Practice of Accelerated Second-Degree Baccalaureate Students Using Clinical Coaches

Among the challenges currently facing nursing is the need for new graduates who are competent to begin providing complex patient care. Innovations in nursing education must lead to outcomes that bridge the gap between nursing education and the beginning competencies that employers need in newly hired graduates. One method for preparing students for patient care is the clinical coach model. This model involves placing a student nurse with an experienced, baccalaureate-prepared staff nurse for 12 months of clinical experience. The student works the same schedule as the coach rather than with a series of preceptors on different units. Coaches attend training conducted by school of nursing faculty, using high-fidelity simulation with clinical scenarios. Coaches and students are supported through weekly visits by clinical faculty. This model of clinical education is one method that provides innovation for clinical nursing education and a foundation for further research.