Nursing is a profession of service, whose central focus is the care of people. To obtain the knowledge and skills needed to deliver quality care, it is necessary for health schools, and especially professors, to recognize the importance of their work in training professionals and to develop behaviours and skills needed for success in this area. This literature review was conducted to determine characteristics that clinical instructors should have in order for the practical learning process of the students to be perceived as effective. The evidence found indicates that the role of clinical teaching is complex especially in relation to its main task of modeling. In order to perceive learning as effective, it must comply with characteristics which can be divided into five groups: relationship with students, professional skills, evaluation skills, teaching skills and personal factors. The latter area is where the greatest differences are seen between effective and ineffective teachers. This study of the literature invites professors to conduct an analysis of their work, and to identify aspects that are deficient in their learning process. It is hoped that this will lead to reflection on how to better achieve their role, and fulfill the expectations and needs of the students. The final outcome of this process will therefore be an improved learning-teaching process and indirectly, an improved quality of attention for the patient.