Title of Poster: Skills bootcamp to reinforce knowledge and boost confidence in the pre-licensure

BSN student
Name of Presenter: Ashley Cavanna MSN, RN
Email of Primary Author: Ashley_Cavanna@bshsi.org
Phone number of Primary Author: 804-334-0529
Name of Facility: Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing, Richmond, VA
Background
Problem
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, in-person learning experiences were limited and created
fewer opportunities for faculty to evaluate and provide real-time feedback for the pre-licensure
BSN student. The limited in-person learning experiences in previous semesters resulted in a gap
of competent skills and confidence in the second semester Junior, pre-licensure BSN student.
Purpose
The implementation of a skills bootcamp for the Adult Nursing Science II (ANS II)
practicum provides the opportunity for students to practice skills learned during previous
semesters, clarify technique, and use the faculty for knowledge and skill development.
Significance
The Adult Nursing Science II practicum includes experiences on general medical-surgical
units, oncology units, neuroscience units and critical care units, in addition to the administration
of a high-stakes medication and dosage calculation test. Hosting a mandatory skills bootcamp on
the first day of the course allows Faculty to identify potential struggling students to intervene
early, increasing their success rate in the course.
Methods or Process Steps
The Adult Nursing Science II practicum includes experiences on general medical-surgical
units, oncology units, neuroscience units and critical care units, in addition to the administration
of a high-stakes medication and dosage calculation test.
Results
Sample of Student Comments
“The bootcamp provided a comfortable, safe space to practice skills we learned last semester.
This summer felt very long, and I was worried I had forgotten some of the skills we learned last
semester. However, I felt like they came back fairly naturally during the stations. Additionally, I
appreciated the time to be able to ask clarifying questions about this course during this unusual
semester”
“During week one we had a quick review about the skills we had learned in the past semesters.
This allowed me to practice drawing up medications, priming lines, and doing a head-to-toe
assessment. I enjoyed this time because it allowed me to have a quick refresher before heading
into the practicum setting”
“After going through each of the skills I felt some of last semesters skills returning and felt my
confidence begin to return as well.
Nursing Implications
Increased student confidence, stronger relationship between faculty and student,
increased success rates in the practicum setting.
Future Directions
Permanent addition of the bootcamp to the ANS II practicum schedule. Recommendation
to add a skills bootcamp to other practicum experiences, as appropriate.