Learning Objective #1: The learner will describe an alternative clinical experince to educate undergraduate bacclaureate nursing students about vulnerable populations.

Learning Objective #2: The learner will be able to identify a teaching method to assist students to reconceptualize vulnerability.

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For many nursing students, interacting with vulnerable populations in a health care setting is a new experience, yet the concept of vulnerability is established prior to embarking on a nursing education. Vulnerability is linked to increased risk and lack of protection, as well as a variety of attributes which tend to be stigmatizing. However, a truer essence of vulnerability suggests the potential for negative or positive outcomes, which the nurse must consider in planning optimal patient care. Alternative clinical experiences (ACE) were designed to introduce students to vulnerable populations, free of role context, and to foster recognition of the multidimensional aspects of vulnerability. Jefferson School of Nursing faculty established an ACE program for each clinical rotation. The introductory medical-surgical rotation included care of patients with HIV/AIDs and cancer. Patients and families living with HIV/AIDS and cancer told stories of their experiences and participated in a question and answer session. One patient described finding the dignity to ask for what she wanted, “a clean gown, something for pain, and a nurse to hold my hand”. The vulnerability of illiteracy, women with heart disease, survivors of rape, and family members of critically ill patients has been explored in the ACE programs throughout the curriculum. Students indicated that they were better able to understand, appreciate, and empathize with vulnerable populations. They regarded the communication to be “immediately relevant and meaningful”, which enabled them “to view the world differently.” Exposure to vulnerable populations in an alternative clinical setting has provided an opportunity for students to experience the humanity of vulnerable populations through story telling and interaction. The ACE programs have broadened the educational experience of undergraduate baccalaureate nursing students at Jefferson School of Nursing.