The pandemic created opportunities for creative solutions to loss of in-person MSN clinicals.

Faculty rapidly designed an interactive case study to develop MSN competencies.

The unfolding case study mimicked the real-word impact of the pandemic across health systems.

The COVID-19 pandemic abruptly disrupted nursing education, forcing schools of nursing to move from in-person to online classes while clinical sites suspended rotations. These changes jeopardized graduate nursing degree completion for Registered Nurses (RNs) at a time when they were urgently needed to practice. The aim of this initiative was to develop proficiency of Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) leadership competencies in the absence of in-person clinical experiences and ensure timely program completion. To meet this aim, an interactive virtual clinical experience was rapidly designed. A team of expert faculty integrated a blend of perspectives from academia and practice to develop an unfolding case study across the health care continuum based on the real-world trajectory of the pandemic. This innovative interactive virtual clinical resulted in achievement of the aim. The faculty closely monitored progressive development of student proficiency in leadership, quality, and safety competencies as the teams effectively navigated the rigorous demands of the healthcare system within a complex scenario. Students reported satisfaction with the interactive clinical experience and gained increased confidence in leadership, quality, and safety competencies.

Nurse leadership

Competency development

Graduate nursing education

Interactive virtual learning

Case studies

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