NS1208: Clinical Practicum I

Course Description:

This course introduces nursing students to the clinical environment, providing opportunities to apply knowledge and skills in real patient care settings. Under the supervision of clinical instructors and staff nurses, students will practice basic nursing procedures, observe patient conditions, and participate in direct care activities while developing professional behavior, effective communication, patient safety, infection prevention, and use of the nursing process in holistic care.

Course Objectives

By the end of this first clinical placement, students will be able to:

1. Apply basic nursing knowledge in clinical settings, integrating theory from fundamental nursing into real patient care situations.
2. Demonstrate professional and ethical behavior, respecting patient rights and institutional policies.
3. Perform fundamental nursing skills safely, including bed-making, hygiene care, positioning, and vital signs.
4. Assist patients with daily living activities such as feeding, mobilization, and elimination.
5. Practice safe patient handling, aseptic techniques, and standard precautions to minimize risk and ensure quality care.
6. Observe and document patient conditions accurately.
7. Communicate effectively with patients, families, and healthcare team members.
8. Reflect on clinical experiences to improve skills and support lifelong learning.

 Clinical Practicum I is where students first transition from classroom learning to real-life patient care.