This study shows that the use of outpatient units for clinical placement in nursing studies faces several challenges. However, the study also identifies opportunities for making the placement in an outpatient unit a positive experience for the students. Preparedness and guidance during placement were imperative for making the week in the outpatient unit meaningful. Students need guidance in understanding concepts and in applying expectations. Customized forms can help students who spend the clinical placement in an outpatient unit see the nursing perspective more clearly. In the future, educators, preceptors and students need to continue developing the concepts and forms. When planning rotation between the regular ward and the outpatient unit, the timing of placement in the outpatient unit should be in the middle or end of the overall clinical placement period. More research is needed on the use of structured learning activities such as unit-specific learning outcomes and targeted reflections in special clinical placements such as outpatient units.