Concept-Based Learning for Capstone Clinical Experiences in Hospital and Community Settings.

Nielsen, Ann; Lanciotti, Kristy; Garner, Annette; Brown, Linda

BACKGROUND Capstone clinical experiences provide opportunities for students to develop increasing competence and independence in nursing practice, as well as to focus on care that is fundamental to contemporary nursing practice. PROBLEM Increasingly in the United States, nursing practice is expanding to community settings, with enhanced focus on population health, whereas promoting safe practice within acute care settings remains an imperative. Student learning needs vary by the clinical setting as does delivery of clinical experiences and associated programmatic challenges. Yet, safe and effective practice is required in all environments. APPROACH This article describes 2 concept-based approaches to promote deep understanding of key aspects of nursing care developed to manage specific challenges in hospital and community settings. Outcomes/Conclusions: Concept-based learning activities, used to promote deeper clinical thinking and integration of theory with practice, support students to develop increased competence in care of specific patient populations in both environments.