Client assignments, responsibilities, and expectations for independent functioning should be gradually increased during the practicum experience based on this recommended progression:
Day 1:
Orient student to facility, unit, policies and procedures
Student should shadow preceptor and assist with basic skills and procedures
Day 2:
Assign student two of low acuity clients (critical care students should be assigned one)
Allow student to assume all care of the clients, perform full documentation, and give hand-off report
Days 3-10:
Gradually increase the complexity and number of clients assigned to the student each shift
Days 11 -12:
Student should be assigned the preceptor's full client assignment
By midway through the experience (around day 6), the student should be caring for an assignment that represents 50% of a typical assignment for the preceptor's unit. By the end of the practicum the student should have a full client assignment expected for a New Graduate Nurse on the unit.