Clinical Instructor Basics

Teaching with real patients in the clinical setting is an essential component of nursing education. Clinical instructors are responsible for teaching best practices for clinical skills, communication, and professionalism. Below you will find basic tips and strategies for effective bedside clinical instruction.

Role of the Clinical Instructor

• Clinical Instructor Role and Responsibilities
• Welcome Email to Students: Example 1| Example 2
• The Only List of Icebreaker Questions You'll Ever Need
• Strategies for Successful Clinical Teaching
• Daily Assignment Sheet
• Sample Report Sheet
• Using Debriefing Methods in the Postclinical Conference
• Using the Tools of Debriefing with Good Judgment and Deliberate Practice

Clinical Skills and Validation

• Hand Hygiene Checklist
• Donning and Doffing PPE Checklist
• Head-to-Toe Assessment Checklist
• Student Uniform Checklist

Professionalism

• Professionalism in the Clinical Setting – Attendance, Lateness, and Dress Code

Safety in the Clinical Setting

• Safety in the Clinical Setting – Needlestick Procedures, Falls & Medication Errors, COVID-19 Guidelines, and Inclement Weather Guidelines