NURS 254 Transition from Education to Practice
introduces nursing students to the work setting by involving them in as many situations common to everyday clinical practice as possible while providing support and guidance from a nurse preceptor and instructor. Students work one eight-hour day and/or evening shift per week, provide direct care to a group of clients, and manage care given by other health care workers. The course presents concepts and issues pertinent to the effective entry into nursing practice. Students are prepared to perform in their expected role in regard to leadership, time management, and patient care management. The concepts of conflict management, accountability, quality assurance, employment, the health care delivery systems, diagnosis-related groups, and legal/ethical issues are also discussed. Opportunities and challenges related to lifelong learning and professional responsibilities are identified. This course is applicable toward all certificates and degrees (credit hours 5.0, lecture hours 3.0, lab hours 6.0).