Trainees manage a ward – A successful learning project at Magdeburg University Hospital
The project “Trainees manage a ward” was successfully implemented again in 2025 at Magdeburg University Hospital – this time in wards MKG1 and CHK09. It offers trainees in their third year of general nursing training the opportunity not only to get to know everyday life on the ward, but also to actively shape it and organize it on their own responsibility.
Over a period of four weeks, the trainees went through a structured process:
- Week 1: Individual preparation in the teaching cabinet
- Week 2: Working on the ward under the guidance of practical instructors and experienced colleagues
- Week 3: Gradual reduction of guidance – the trainees took on increasing responsibility
- Week 4: Independent organization and implementation of everyday ward life by the trainee team
Organizing complex processes in everyday hospital life was particularly challenging for the participants. For the first time, they worked together as an independent trainee team and interacted closely with the medical team – an experience that required a lot of courage and coordination at the beginning.
The project was specifically designed to prepare for the final exam, strengthen teamwork, and promote the ability to embed nursing activities in a structured organization. In the process, the trainees learned about challenges that are often only marginally visible in regular everyday training – but which are crucial for their future professional life as nursing professionals.
Both the participating wards, MKG1 and ›CHK09,and the trainees rated the project as a great success. The goals set were achieved, and some participants can imagine working in the participating areas after passing their exams. The patient guidance and support from colleagues were particularly highlighted as positive aspects.
For the trainees themselves, the project was a valuable experience: they felt very comfortable in their teams, were able to better assess their own strengths, and at the same time recognized which skills they would like to work on specifically before their exams.
The “Trainees Manage a Ward” project impressively demonstrates how practical training initiatives support young nurses in taking on responsibility, developing self-confidence, and being optimally prepared for the start of their careers.
Fotos: Sarah Kossmann / UMMD