I will describe a post conference experience for undergaduates. If at all possible, I would assign patients that were consistent with the content that students are learning in class. for example, if the class is studying the pulmonary system, I would assign patients with asthma, COPD, pneumonia etc. This is not always possible based on the unit and patient population, but would be helpful to reinforce learning occurring in the classroom. In the case there were no patients consistent with the content being studied, I would provide a short case study that we could review as a group to help talk through key points in clinical care. This would be an opportunity to exercise clinical thinking skills for the students (Michigan Center for Nursing).
The next component of the post conference would be a debriefing session where the students have the opportunity to discuss what went well and what challenges they had during the clinical shift. This is important to helping the students process their experience, answer any questions and allow students to learn from each other (Michigan Center for Nursing). Fellow students and the instructor could offer insight into the clinical experience of the other group members.
Post conference is also an opportunity to review a policy or skill that came up during the clinical day. For example, if a patient had a chest tube today, this might be an opportunity to talk through the policy related to chest tube care and discuss the care provided. I would ask a student in advance to share this. Per McKeachie, discussion can be enhanced by giving a student advanced notice that you want them to share in class so they have a chance to get their thoughts together (Svinicki & McKeachie, 2014). Discussion would include the care provided, review of relevant policy and how to document that care. Documentation is a stressful skill for new nurses as they are not sure of all the necessary pieces to document.
At the end of conference, I would give them a preview of the next clinical day to enhance their preparedness. This may include areas of focus, who would be passing meds, performing skills etc. Finally, I would invite students to contact me if they had anything they wanted to discuss at the next postconference.