A Capstone Simulation for Leadership Development: Bridging Theory to Practice.

BACKGROUND: New graduate nurses are expected to function autonomously and be practice-ready upon graduation. However, transitioning from the role of student to one of leadership in the professional nurse's role is a complex experience.

PROBLEM: Concerns for safety and liability in an increasingly complex health care environment may limit the availability of relevant clinical experiences for nursing students to develop leadership skills.

APPROACH: The Mock Hospital, a comprehensive capstone simulation, was designed to immerse senior nursing students into the leadership role of the professional nurse.

OUTCOME: Positive feedback obtained from students through reflection and discussion supports the implementation of a capstone simulation.

CONCLUSIONS: Supporting new graduate nurses' transition into practice, while preparing the next generation of nurses to successfully meet the challenges of a complex health care environment, will require innovative and transformative educational experiences.