Facilitating learning on clinical placement using near-peer supervision: A mixed methods study

Abstract

BackgroundGraduating nursing students report lower competence in leadership and delegation skills, which may be due to lack of sufficient opportunities to practice leadership skills such as delegation and supervision. A near-peer clinical supervision model, in which third-year students supervise first-year students on placement, may provide a mechanism to develop graduating students' leadership skills while improving the learning experience for junior students. ObjectivesTo evaluate nursing students' experiences and perceptions of participating in a near-peer clinical supervision model. DesignA mixed methods design including an anonymous post-placement survey of students, and a group interview. SettingsMedical and surgical wards in three Australian hospitals. MethodForty-three first-year nursing students were supervised by 92 third-year nursing students on clinical placement under the supervision of a registered nurse in a near-peer supervision model. ResultsTwenty-seven first-year (69.2%) and 43 third-year (46.7%) students completed the questionnaire. First-years reported that being supervised by a senior student was a positive experience and would recommend it to other students (4.49/5 ± 0.71), and indicated that third-year students behaved professionally, were knowledgeable, and provided opportunities to ask questions (4.52–4.81/5). Third-year students reported gaining confidence, teaching, delegation and leadership skills (4.21–4.49/5). Qualitative responses supported the quantitative findings. Additional findings were the need for greater preparation of ward registered nurses to work in the model. ConclusionsBoth groups enjoyed working in a near-peer clinical supervision model. The model provided opportunities for senior students to develop leadership and delegation skills and a positive experience of placement for junior students. Further attention to preparation of ward registered nurses would improve model delivery.