INTRODUCTION There is no argument that a significant nursing shortage exists. Employers are desperately looking for nurses who are competent to care for higher acuity clients. In response to messages from nurse managers across the nation that new graduates need more competence in clinical skills and decision making, Southern Adventist University's School of Nursing initiated a summer clinical intensive, NRSG 191, midway through the A. S. curriculum. This "ICU" course, consisting of 120 clock hours, provides opportunity for the application of theory and skills in a basic medical/surgical setting. Students obtain nursing experience in an acute and/or skilled care facility under the direction of a qualified preceptor. This concentrated dose of "real nursing world" experience has resulted in a dramatic increase in students' skills, decision making, and confidence level. IMPLEMENTATION Student preparation prior to the "ICU" is completion of 16-24 credit hours (190-290 clinical hours) of nursing with a minimum of Fundamentals, Adult Health I, and Mental Health. The student writes objectives for the ICU experience which are shared with both faculty liaison and preceptor. The preceptor then assists the student to find learning experiences to meet objectives and evaluates progress at mid-rotation and completion of the course. Contracts are negotiated with agencies across the country, often in the student's hometown. Agencies are asked to select preceptors according to specified guidelines. Faculty liaisons are available via beeper for student concerns. EVALUATION Evaluations have been wildly positive -from agencies, preceptors, and students. The growth that takes place during the 120 hours is usually phenomenal. Students return for their final year of nursing with renewed confidence, experiential knowledge, and a desire to successfully complete their curriculum and join the workforce.
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