An Academic and Clinical Practice Partnership Model: Collaboration Toward Baccalaureate Preparation of RNs

BACKGROUND: In response to the call for a baccalaureate-prepared nursing workforce versed in enhanced critical thinking, clinical judgment, and complex decision making, an innovative and highly accessible model for developing academic and clinical practice partnerships among stake-holders in nursing education was developed and implemented. METHOD: Participatory action research informed the qualitative research methodology for implementing the model. The model allows for a number of data collection points to ensure the needs and concerns of stakeholders were considered. RESULTS: Implementation of the model resulted in six new academic partnership agreements and two new clinical practice partnerships. CONCLUSION: Academic and clinical practice partnerships are integral to fostering mutual respect among stakeholder institutions, enhancing collaboration toward evidence-based practice and joint research efforts, and creating seamless pathways to academic progression in the nursing profession. Such collaborative efforts are paramount to easing the barriers to baccalaureate and advanced-degree preparation in nursing. [J Nurs Educ. 2020;59(4):203-209.].