Learning Objective #1: Compare and contrast four factors inherent in traditional versus Partnership Program models in an undergraduate psychiatric-mental health clinical specialty course

Learning Objective #2: Discuss three research themes in light of implications for nursing education and practice

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Escalating mental health care needs coupled with a decreasing nurse labor force demand a fundamental paradigm shift in the present undergraduate education and service partnerships among psychiatric mental health nursing students and practicing nurses. The purpose of this study was to describe the common experiences of 40 student partners engaged in an innovative Partnership Program with practicing nurses during an undergraduate psychiatric-mental health nursing clinical experience. This study used a qualitative method of phenomenology for data collection and analysis. Results of the study revealed a phenomenological model that embodied the core theme of nurse partner presence. Three major themes stemming from the core theme were uncovered. Experiencing nurse partner presence through comforting me, knowing me, and connecting with me unveiled a rich contextual foundation for student / nurse partnership in the clinical arena of mental health nursing. Implications for professional learning partnerships between nursing academia and service institutions are discussed.