Clinical supervision models
We use three models of supervising the clinical courses:
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Facilitation Model
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Preceptor Model
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Mentor Model
These models are used depending on the:
The methods of clinical supervision available at each clinical agency will be advertised on the SONIA website. Some clinical agencies may use a combination of models and if so, you will need to choose both a venue and a preferred supervision model.
Facilitation Model
This model is particularly suited to the students studying NUR2099 Clinical A: Assessment and Care, although the model may also be used occasionally in particular clinical agencies.
The model uses a Registered Nurse who supervises a group of usually 6-8 students. Facilitators have successfully completed a workshop conducted by the Department of Nursing and Midwifery. Your Facilitator will organise, supervise and evaluate your clinical experience. The Course staff (Examiner, Moderator or team member) will also visit the clinical agency in which you are engaged. Clinical Team visits will have the purpose of consultation with you and your facilitator, clarifying assessment items, and assisting you to link theoretical concepts to clinical practice.
Preceptor Model
In this model you will be assigned a Registered Nurse, who becomes your Preceptor during your clinical course. During most of your clinical course, you will be working closely with your Preceptor/s, and be on the same shifts. This does mean that you will be rostered with your Preceptor and will be expected to work any of the three shifts, including weekends (if rostered).
Preceptors are experienced Registered Nurses, who have completed either a 'generic' Preceptor Program, conducted by Queensland Health (or their clinical agency), or by the Department of Nursing and Midwifery Clinical Team. In addition, Preceptors are prepared in the specifics of assessment as required for your clinical course at USQ. During your placement you may have more than a single Preceptor. In cases where you have more than a single Preceptor, your final Clinical Evaluation will be conducted by an amalgamation of comments from all of your Preceptors, but will usually be compiled by your Principal Preceptor. Clinical Course Team Members will either visit or make contact with you (if in a distant rural setting) during your block placement.
Mentor Model
The Mentor system allows you flexibility to undertake your clinical hours over a longer period on normally a two day a week basis.
If you select this method of undertaking clinical hours, and are successful in obtaining a placement, you then become a 'Fellow' of the clinical agency in which you will undertake your clinical placement. You will be assigned a 'Mentor' for the entire duration of your clinical placement period. As for the Preceptor Model, you will be rostered to work the shifts allocated to the Mentor, including possibly weekends. The role of the Mentor differs from the Preceptor, in that the Mentor will form a longer term relationship with you and include you in ward meetings or continuing education programs if applicable. Mentors have undertaken an additional educational preparation to the Preceptor Program. As yet not all clinical agencies have adopted this model, but there is much interest in this method and additional agencies are coming on line. As for the Preceptor Model above, Clinical Course Team Members will visit with you and your Mentor.
Please note: The Preceptor and Mentor Models will not be available for NUR2099 Clinical A: Assessment and Care.