A Clinical Evaluation Tool for Nursing Students Based

on the Nursing Process

Barbara H Cottrell, MSN, RN; Beverly H Cox, MA, RN; Sandra J Kelsey, MS, RN; Patricia J Ritchie, MSN,
RN; Elizabeth A Rumph, MSN, RN; Mary K Shannahan, PhD, RN

 Journal of Nursing Education. 1986;25(7):270-274

 https://doi.org/10.3928/0148-4834-19860901-04
 Posted September 1, 1986

 ABSTRACT

 FULL TEXT

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 REFERENCES

Abstract
ABSTRACT

An integrated curriculum was implemented in an upper division baccalaureate nursing

program which required letter grades for clinical courses. The second semester clinical
course involved student evaluation in four different settings. The original evaluation tool
lacked both the discrimination needed for letter grades and the competencies common to all
the settings. A computerized evaluation tool was developed to identify behaviors which
could be evaluated and assigned a letter grade in all four clinical settings, and to provide
formative and summative evaluation of performance for students throughout the semester.
The tool focuses on the four areas of the nursing process, each of which is weighted
according to the conceptual framework of the curriculum and the ability of a student at this
level. In each of these four areas, entry level behaviors were identified and then built upon
by progression from fundamental skills to more complex and independent behaviors.
Students are rated on a criterion-referenced rating scale. A statistician verified that the tool
was mathematically sound. Once developed, the tool was placed on computer where both
students and faculty evaluate student clinical performance every two to four weeks.
Because the tool was placed on computer, students receive immediate feedback, which
facilitates formative evaluations. Trends in student performance can be identified easily, and
faculty paperwork is decreased. The tool also promotes objectivity in evaluation and student
awareness of expected behaviors. Finally, faculty and students have become more familiar
and more comfortable with computers.