Clinical Reimagined Immersion Model© Reimagining clinical nursing education
The Clinical Reimagined Immersion Model (CRIM©) is an innovative approach to clinical nursing education developed by the University of Florida College of Nursing.
CRIM© intentionally sequences classroom learning, simulation and immersive clinical experiences to create a more connected path from nursing education to professional practice.
How CRIM© Works
Rather than moving between classroom instruction and clinical experiences each week, students progress through focused periods of learning, practice and clinical immersion. This structure allows students to build knowledge and skills before applying them in real-world patient care environments.
CRIM© organizes learning into three connected phases:
Phase 1:
Learn
Building knowledge and clinical reasoning: Students begin with focused academic instruction designed to strengthen their understanding of nursing concepts, clinical decision-making and patient care.
Phase 2:
Practice
Developing skills through simulation: Students apply what they have learned through hands-on practice and simulation, building technical skills, confidence and readiness for the clinical environment.
Phase 3:
Immerse
Applying learning in clinical practice: Students then participate in concentrated clinical experiences alongside experienced nurses, allowing them to apply their knowledge and skills in real patient care settings.
Connecting Education and Practice
Traditional nursing education often requires students to move between classroom instruction, simulation and clinical experiences throughout the same week.
CRIM© creates greater continuity by intentionally grouping these experiences. Students first develop foundational knowledge, then practice their skills and finally enter an immersive clinical experience where they can focus on applying what they have learned.
This structure is designed to strengthen the connection between nursing education and professional practice.
Mentorship at the center
Nurse mentors play an important role in the CRIM© experience.
During clinical immersion, students learn alongside practicing nurses who provide guidance, feedback and insight into the realities of patient care.
Through these relationships, students gain exposure not only to clinical skills, but also to communication, prioritization, teamwork, decision-making and the responsibilities of professional nursing practice.
Preparing future nurses
CRIM© is designed to support the development of students who are prepared to transition from nursing school into professional practice.
Through focused learning, simulation, clinical immersion and mentorship, students have opportunities to:
- Strengthen clinical judgment and decision-making
- Build confidence in patient care environments
- Apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings
- Develop communication and teamwork skills
- Experience continuity in clinical practice
- Better understand the expectations of professional nursing
Advancing nursing education
The Clinical Reimagined Immersion Model© reflects the UF College of Nursing’s commitment to advancing nursing education and preparing graduates for the evolving needs of health care.
By rethinking how students move from knowledge acquisition to hands-on practice and clinical application, CRIM© creates a more intentional and connected educational experience for future nurses.
