Bridging the theory-practice gap? The role of the lecturer/practitioner in supporting pre-registration students gaining clinical experience in an orthopaedic unit

This paper explores the role of the lecturer/practitioner in bridging the theory-practice gap for pre-registration student nurses gaining their clinical experience within orthopaedic wards. A case study approach will be adopted, outlining the personal experience of one lecturer/practitioner in developing the learning environment in an orthopaedic unit. The positive evaluation of planned clinical teaching sessions has identified that it is imperative for both service and academic institutes to recognize the need to implement strategies that will ensure competent orthopaedic nursing practitioners.