Chris was assigned to PSPH Ortho Night Shift for his clinical practicum. Although this was not the unit or shift that was an ideal preference, he embraced the experience and truly approached it with optimism and dedication to learning. Chris wanted to step out of his comfort zone and challenge himself to engage as he would in the role of an RN.

On his second shift at this unit, he took on a full patient assignment and asked his preceptor to challenge him in his ability to manage workload and time management. His preceptor and other staff were impressed by Chris, not only by his clinical abilities but also by his teamwork and work ethic. Chris is compassionate in his care, and he practices self-reflection in order to help him become a better nurse.

In his reflection assignments, he shared that he identified he had some bias related to prior patient interactions with mental health and SUD. Through doing this self-reflection, he changed his approach and recognized he had more compassion and positive intractions with patients that improved their outcomes. During my last site visit with Chris on the unit, his preceptor spoke with high regard for him and the staff indicated to me that they were so sad it was nearing the end of his time on the unit. The staff considered him to be part of the team. One of the nurse leaders and unit manager came in during the night shift ( after 9 PM) to meet with Chris and thank him for his contributions to the unit. Chris represented the nursing program and university in such a positive light that it has significantly impacted our relationship with our clinical partner. Chris is very personable and takes ownership of his learning. I have appreciated working with him over the past 2 years and know he will be an amazing RN.