Abstract
D.Cur.
The purpose of this research study was to develop and describe a model for clinical
accompaniment for learners who follow a distance education programme in nursing.
The future of health services relies worldwide on programmes in nursing with a
practical component which will equip the learner to provide safe and effective
nursing care. In spite of attempts throughout the world to bridge the gap between
theory and practice, there is still confusion about who is primarily responsible for
clinical accompaniment of learners in nursing.
South Africa is experiencing a shortage of nurses, and these numbers could be
supplemented by distance education. The challenge arose to develop a scientifically
based functional model that would be easily understandable. Such a model could
address the gaps in clinical accompaniment and lead to better outcomes of nursing
care. It could contribute to more nurses gaining access to possible further training.