Proof of ConceptProof of Concept

Pilot testing of the VCP was an observational study conducted during the 2004-2005 academic year to test the concept. The 4-hour VCP was conducted between nursing students at Mount Aloysius College and a patient in the Intensive Care Unit at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC. Students were given preparatory assignments based on the type of patient scheduled as well as procedures to be followed during the 4-hour, unstructured experience. Students participated in a post-care conference in the classroom following the virtual clinical experience. Students and faculty evaluated the experience by completing an attitude survey developed for the protocol. Qualitative data was obtained through focus group discussions with participating students.