Clinical engineering practicum: a new approach in clinical engineering education.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Healthcare Technology Management

Background:

• Clinical engineers apply engineering principles to healthcare technology.
• Experiential education is crucial for clinical engineering training.
• The transition from academia to hospital environments can be challenging due to "culture shock".

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the concept of a clinical engineering practicum.
• To improve the transition from university to hospital settings for students.
• To provide an introductory learning experience bridging academic and clinical environments.

Main Methods:

• Development of the clinical engineering practicum concept.
• Positioning the practicum as an intermediate step between university and hospital.

Main Results:

• The practicum serves as an introductory learning experience.
• It acts as a halfway point between academic and clinical settings.
• Aims to help students focus on professional goals.

Conclusions:

• The clinical engineering practicum is a valuable tool for student development.
• It mitigates the challenges of transitioning into hospital environments.
• Enhances readiness for clinical engineering practice.