Published: Sept. 28, 2012
LANSING, Mich. - Sparrow and the Michigan State University College of Nursing are working together in a unique new student nurse mentoring program, the Dedicated Education Unit.
The Dedicated Education Unit identifies Sparrow nurses to be clinical mentors and pairs them with MSU nursing students. The program is a national model to promote team building, leadership, and improved educational and patient care outcomes.
"This innovative academic partnership between Sparrow and MSU is the first-of-its-kind in the region," said Kim Alexander, Sparrow's Director of Clinical Care Nursing. "By having these students learn side by side with a clinical mentor, we create an environment that elevates the practice of the mentor and student, with a strong emphasis on improving the clinical outcomes for our Patients."
"Working closely with a Sparrow nurse mentor will enrich the clinical education of the students," said Martha Scheckel, Director of Undergraduate Programs at the MSU College of Nursing. "This relationship will help the students experience all aspects of the RN role in creating a safe quality care environment."
The Dedicated Education Unit was planned by a joint team of Sparrow nurses and MSU College of Nursing faculty. Mentor training and student orientation began in mid-September.