Traditional Student Learning
The traditional practice of nursing students administering medications in the clinical setting involves a structured, supervised process designed to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring safe and effective patient care. This practice typically includes several key steps:
- Pre-Clinical (Classroom and Lab) Preparation: Students study pharmacology, medication administration techniques, dosage calculations, and the six to ten rights of medication administration. Depending on the institution, this may include formative testing of their skills and simulated activities.
- Supervised Clinical Experience: During clinical rotations in healthcare settings, students administer medications under the close supervision of a clinical instructor or a licensed nurse, gradually gaining confidence and competency.
- Direct Observation and Verification: Instructors or preceptors closely observe students as they prepare and administer medications, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and correct techniques.
- Documentation: Students accurately document the medication administration process in the patient’s medical record.
- Increasing Independence: As students demonstrate competence, they are granted more independence in medication administration, balancing this autonomy with the need for ongoing supervision to ensure patient safety.
- Feedback, Evaluation and Reflection: Students receive continuous feedback and formal evaluations from instructors and preceptors, encouraging them to reflect on their strengths, areas for improvement, and overall clinical performance.
College of Nurses of Ontario. (2024). Medication Decision Tool. Retrieved from https://www.cno.org/en/learn-about-standards-guidelines/educational-tools/decision-tool-medication/
