The Use of Virtual Case Studies on Successful Mastery of the 3Ps and Readiness for the Student Clinical Practicum Experience
Pathophysiology, Physical Assessment, and Pharmacology across the lifespan, 3 core courses required across all APRN specialties, form the foundation for entry into the student clinical experience. Applied learning is a well-established pedagogy in education (DeSanto-Madeya,2007). APRN education builds upon the education and experience of the Baccalaureate prepared nurse, allowing the student to apply new knowledge to clinical experiences for enhanced mastery of the content. Challenges arise as APRN students come to educational programs with wide variations in clinical experience and proficiency with patient interactions. The purpose for incorporation of various formats of evidence-based virtual case studies into the delivery of the 3Ps is to provide a safe learning environment for student’s to enhance clinical skill and knowledge through content application. Case studies were presented in graduating levels of difficulty. Pathophysiology Across the Lifespan incorporated case studies from Med-U.org. The Med-U cases required students to select appropriate responses and actions from information presented to them. Physical Assessment Across the Lifespan incorporated case progression through Tina Jones from Shadow Health. The Shadow Health modules required students to elicit information and determine appropriate responses and actions based on the information that was elicited. Advanced Pharmacology Across the Lifespan required students to present two case studies and lead a discussion on the pharmacologic approach to the case. Mastery of the 3Ps is measured through level of case study engagement, OSCE performance, and standardized comprehensive testing. Students who exhibit deficits in learning work with faculty to develop a plan for remediation that includes review of didactic content and working with their clinical preceptor to focus on these areas in the clinical setting.
References
DeSanto-Madeya, S.(2007). Using case studies based on a nursing conceptual model to teach medical-surgical nursing. Nursing Science Quarterly. Oct;20(4): 324-9.
Laster, K., Johnson, EA., Ravert, P., & Rink D.(2014). Role modeling clinical judgment for an unfolding older adult simulation. Journal of Nursing Education. May 1;53(5):257-64 doi 10-3298
Keywords: Simulation, Virtual Simulations, Case Study, APRN Education, 3P’s