Application of the critical pathway and integrated case teaching method to nursing orientation.
BACKGROUND
Nursing staff development programs must be responsive to current changes in healthcare. New nursing staff must be prepared to manage continuous change and to function competently in clinical practice.


METHODS
The orientation pathway, based on a case management model, is used as a structure for the orientation phase of staff development. The integrated case is incorporated as a teaching strategy in orientation. The integrated case method is based on discussion and analysis of patient situations with emphasis on role modeling and integration of theory and skill.


RESULTS
The orientation pathway and integrated case teaching method provide a useful framework for orientation of new staff. Educators, preceptors and orientees find the structure provided by the orientation pathway very useful.


CONCLUSIONS
Orientation that is developed, implemented and evaluated based on a case management model with the use of an orientation pathway and incorporation of an integrated case teaching method provides a standardized structure for orientation of new staff. This approach is designed for the adult learner, promotes conceptual reasoning, and encourages the social and contextual basis for continued learning.
Goodman
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Presbyterian Healthcare Services, Clinical Education Department, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA.
D000328:Adult; D019090:Case Management; D019091:Critical Pathways; D003479:Curriculum; D004509:Education, Nursing, Continuing / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D007318:Inservice Training / Q000458:organization & administration*; D016294:Models, Nursing; D015402:Nursing Education Research; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000193:education*