How to organize your student assignments

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.

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