Learning Objective #1: List three critical elements in developing a senior leadership and management practicum to support evidence-based nursing

Learning Objective #2: Identify two evidence-based practical examples that enhanced leadership/management role development of senior nursing students

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Baccalaureate graduates are considered to be “health care designer, coordinator, and manager” of nursing care. Graduates must utilize and acquire skills related to communication, collaboration, negotiation, delegation, coordination, and evaluation of interdisciplinary work. Synthesis of information from various sources to guide patients and families through the health care delivery system is a requirement for role development. This senior leadership/management project and course requires students to apply outcome-based practice models to enhance nursing and health care practices. Through a 45 hour self-designed independent practicum in any setting of their choice, the graduate acquires knowledge and skills of the leadership/management role through evidence- based data gathering and research of a project related to a health care need. As a result of the project, senior nursing students collaborate with an individual in a leadership/management position to design a project based on management principles. Through a review of evidence-based research, which addresses the organization, management, and economics of health care, the senior student implements the project as designed. At the end, students are required to evaluate achievement of the objectives. Final recommendations must include an analysis of the project indicating the need for additional research/work and how results will be applied within the organization affecting clients' outcomes, quality of nursing/health care, and the cost-benefit ratio (both quantitative and qualitative data) of delivering such health care to a particular population. Evidence- based research findings are incorporated to formulate their project and to develop their solution(s) in the environmental context of the agency. This senior project forces students to “Think Outside of the Box” and to develop astute critical thinking skills for problem solving approaches to situations in a leadership/management context. Examples of evidence- based projects include: Tuberculosis Exposure Control Plan,, Eating Disorders: Weigh the Consequences, and Peppermint Aromatherapy: Research and Implementation on a Surgical Floor..