Establishing Partnerships With Social Services Agencies for Community Health Education

Abstract

Nursing education is currently faced with many changes in both the academic and clinical environments. A significant challenge is to provide students with meaningful clinical placements. Experiences in clinical placements allow students to test assessment, critical thinking, communication, and decision-making skills in real and culturally diverse world situations. Nursing faculties need to develop new and innovative approaches for students to gain the necessary clinical experience. This article describes a community health clinical placement designed and implemented through a partnership of academic and social service organizations. It details the conception, growth, and development of student nursing clinics based in elderly and disabled housing sites.