Incorporating complexity science theory into nursing curricula.

Complexity science theory is a natural framework for nursing educators and nurse leaders to use in leading and solving complex, unpredictable problems in highly complex organizations and evolving health care systems. This article explores the basic tenets that must be embraced by nurse leaders and educators to integrate complexity science theory into nursing education curricula.

Centralizing a registered nurse preceptor program at the institutional level.

New nurses are traditionally oriented into their professional role by a registered nurse preceptor. This article describes the process of renovating and centralizing RN preceptor programs within the Department of Nursing in a multispecialty medical center in the Midwest. Outcomes of centralizing the preceptor program included involvement of nursing leaders, identification of methods of RN preceptor recognition, implementation of methods of improving institution-wide RN preceptor professional development, identification of opportunities for specialized RN preceptor classes and forums, creation of a tool to measure workload productivity, and finally, the formulation of a database to track performance and completion of orientation programs.

Bridging the gap: creating faculty development opportunities at a large medical center.

Faculty development often focuses on developing practicing professionals into teaching experts within a classroom setting. As such, the topic of nursing faculty development is often written about from the standpoint of an employing traditional academic institution. Nursing faculty also have development needs related to practice within a clinical education institution.