FAST FACTS FOR THE CLINICAL NURSING INSTRUCTOR: CLINICAL TEACHING IN A NUTSHELL

Eden Zabat Kan, Susan Stabler-Haas (Editors), New York: Springer Publishing Company, 2008, paperbound, ISBN: 978-082611887-5, 167 pages, US$25.00.

In Fast Facts for the Clinical Nursing Instructor: Clinical Teaching in a Nutshell, Kan and Stabler-Haass provide readers with a framework of ideas that will help prepare them for clinical teaching. Both authors have a combined teaching experience of 32 years and agreed that what was missing in the literature was a "real-life" practical guide to assist new faculty in making the transition from clinical practice to clinical education.

This book is for the nurses who are beginning their professional teaching careers and for more experienced faculty who want to improve the clinical experience for the students. The content includes real-life case studies to which clinical instructors can relate and compare with situations they may have encountered. This book presents basic facts of clinical teaching and discusses how to make the transition from staff nurse to clinical nursing instructor. The authors have included sample guides and rules adaptable to any setting that they have used effectively in their practice. Useful tips on how "to develop quick insight into the nature and capabilities of the students" include ways to detect the "high fliers" and the "not-so-high fliers" (p. 48). The authors assert that "One of the most important aspects of clinical care coordination is evaluation" (p. 62). The book discusses the student's self-evaluation, the instructor's means of evaluation and grading, and the importance of conferences. The last section of the book focuses on essential competencies found in most programs and on safe practices and highlights important tips necessary to have a successful relationship with students.

The informal writing style of this book makes for easy and quick reading, and the format is organized into short chapters that briefly meet the stated objectives. The most important information appears in bold type, and "fast facts in a nutshell" are in boxes throughout the book to highlight significant information. The book lacks detail but is a good resource for pointers on a variety of subjects. Internet Web sites and references are cited for additional information. The book is small enough to carry in a pocket so that the clinical instructor can refer to the clearly marked sections while on the job. The appendix includes examples of a clinical journal and a clinical assignment sheet that may be helpful to the novice instructor.

Although not meant to replace more detailed graduate programs, this book is a valuable resource for new clinical instructors and provides information to begin a career in teaching. During a busy day on the clinical unit, this reference can "serve as a supplemental guide or handbook for those who want to refresh their knowledge about the clinical instructor role" (p. 144).