Abstract
Background: The global COVID-19 pandemic resulted in abrupt changes in the delivery of health care and nursing education, particularly in highly affected areas of the country.
Problem: Many hospitals suspended nursing students' learning on-site due to concerns related to virus transmission and lack of clear guidance on safe and effective learning. This Model C Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) direct entry MSN program needed to meet graduating students' capstone learning needs in a virtual format.
Approach: A review of the literature along with CNL competencies and other American Association of Colleges of Nursing resources informed this evidence-based virtual capstone experience.
Outcomes: Students achieved learning outcomes in a virtual format and reported high levels of satisfaction with learning activities.
Conclusions: Virtual learning activities were essential at the height of the pandemic and may prove useful in other circumstances that limit clinical site availability. These activities can also complement in-person learning experiences.