Preparing Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Students for Role Transition Through Hospital Immersion

The study explored adult gerontology acute care nurse practitioner (AGACNP) student’s self-perception of confidence and competence in essential domains of nurse practitioner (NP) skills. A preclinical hospital immersion experience was developed to improve transition to the ACACNP role. AGACNP students participated in once-weekly sessions for 3 consecutive weeks, with 14 students completing the experience over a 3-year period. Data showed a 28.7% improvement in student’s self-perception of confidence and competence, with statistically significant improvement in clinical decision-making skills and NP role. AGACNP students requested additional days and appreciated direct faculty feedback, while faculty efficiently supported AGACNP role transition.