The California Department of Consumer Affairs announced Friday evening that it was temporarily lowering the direct patient care training requirements for nursing students in obstetrics, pediatrics, and mental health/psychiatric fields.

Fifty percent of a nursing student’s training can now be done through simulation or other lab-based education, without needing to be in a hospital or healthcare setting. Previously, 75% of a student’s training had to be in direct contact with patients.

The waiver will allow approximately 9,000 nursing students in the state to complete their clinical training this semester, the department said in a news release.

The change comes after nursing students across the state found they were unable to complete their training in hospitals during the coronavirus pandemic that’s left healthcare workers with a shortage of protective equipment.

For students in geriatrics and medical-surgical courses, certain conditions must be met to benefit from the waiver, the department said. Students must prove they were displaced and that they cannot find another site to complete their direct patient care.

The order expires in 60 days and can be amended or extended.

Fresno City College nursing senior Nicole Barnett said she’s happy with the outcome and that she’ll be able to graduate and sit for the licensing exam.

“I am so pleased that the voices of so many nursing students and faculty were heard by the (California Board of Registered Nursing), and they took the action necessary to ensure that we remain on track to graduate.”

The Education Lab is a local journalism initiative that highlights education issues critical to the advancement of the San Joaquin Valley. It is funded by donors. Learn about The Bee’s Education Lab on our website.

This story was originally published April 4, 2020 at 7:21 AM.