The experiences of clinical facilitators working with nursing students in Australia: An interpretive description

Background: Australian nursing students have said they learn more from their clinical facilitator than from any other educator or learning experience. Thus, there is need for more studies that focus on the actions of clinical facilitators so that expertise within this subspecialty can be developed and shared. Method: In 2017, a qualitative study was undertaken using Interpretive Description. Eleven clinical facilitators working in diverse locations across Australia participated in individual semi-structured telephone interviews. Aim: The study aimed to explore the lived experience of Australian clinical facilitators’ interactions with nursing students. Findings: Four themes revealing participants’ different mindsets, actions and skills from their daily work were produced from the study and provide insights into the complexity of the role. These four themes included preparing to work with students; facilitating successful clinical experiences; facing unique challenges; and encountering rewards along the way. Discussion: Clinical facilitators are a legitimate sub specialisation within nursing and as such require regular professional development, particularly in relation to the four aspects of work identified in this study. Conclusion: Professional development for clinical facilitators should be developed on these four aspects of work and its impact evaluated and reported. © 2018 Australian College of Nursing Ltd