New Clinical Model Successfully Pilots with Yale New Haven Health System

Program provides leadership development for nursing students

Senior students in Sacred Heart’s Dr. Susan L. Davis, R.N., & Richard J. Henley College of Nursing (DHCON) were among the first to respond to a call from Yale New Haven Health System (YNHHS) seeking participants for an innovative program.

Yale designed its “Bridge to Professional Practice” program for nursing students who were entering their final semester, offering them the opportunity to work with a designated YNHHS preceptor and engage in bedside experiences that would add to their clinical and decision-making skills. The process also would help them gain confidence in learning the role of a new nurse.

During the recent winter break, 37 nursing students participated in 60 hours of clinical practice with the designated preceptors in various specialty units. Students from DHCON selected hospitals within YNHHS, including Yale New Haven Hospital, Bridgeport Hospital, Greenwich Hospital and Lawrence & Memorial Hospital. After the required clinical hours were complete, the students had preferential consideration for a paid position as a nurse extern within the YNHHS and the option to complete all remaining clinical hours for the spring semester on the unit or within the facility.

“The overarching goal of this program was to provide an immersive experience designed to prepare students for a more seamless transition to the registered nurse role. Students were able to gain invaluable experience in the clinical setting, caring for COVID 19 patients, supporting the health-care team in planning and providing care to patients and learning necessary skills and concepts needed to be successful in their prospective professional registered nurse positions,” said Dean Mary Alice Donius.

Students were excited about the opportunity for “real-world” clinical learning experiences. “The bridge program was a unique experience through which I was able to work with COVID patients. Coming out of this program, I have so much more confidence and comfort, knowing that I have worked along the front lines as a student-nurse, preparing me for graduation,” said Gaelyn Kattman, one of the participating students.

Trisha Signorello, another participant, echoed Kattman’s enthusiasm. “The winter bridge program was an amazing experience. I got the opportunity to work with a seasoned nurse one-on-one in a safe learning environment. Not only did this immersion give me a chance to get a jump on my senior capstone clinical hours, but it deepened my connection to Yale New Haven Hospital, where I would feel lucky to work post-graduation.”