Nursing is a clinical profession influenced by social and environmental change. Facing the continuing evolution of the medical practice environment, nursing educators should take into account both current issues and future trends. As nursing clinical education undergoes radical reform, it must address both current and future healthcare demands. Relevant articles in the literature indicate that students continue to face significant difficulties applying classroom knowledge to clinical practice. This article describes the meanings, purposes, elements and models of nursing clinical education as well as relevant factors of influence. We also offer suggestions for meeting future societal demands.