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A didactic and experiential approach to nursing education
Janet Rosentreter1, Mary Lynn Talboy
1Medical imaging and PACU departments, St Luke's Regional Medical Center, Boise, Idaho, USA.
AORN Journal
|August 28, 2003
Summary
Postanesthesia care unit (PACU) nurses enhanced their knowledge of anesthesia through a pilot program. This observational and self-paced learning approach proved rewarding for participating registered nurses (RNs).
Area of Science:
- Nursing
- Anesthesiology
- Medical Education
Background:
- Postanesthesia care unit (PACU) nursing demands comprehensive knowledge of anesthetic agents, patient responses to anesthesia, and patient vulnerability.
- Registered nurses (RNs) in the PACU require continuous learning to stay updated on evolving practices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a pilot educational program designed to expand the knowledge base of PACU RNs regarding anesthesia.
- To assess the effectiveness and participant satisfaction with a novel learning approach for PACU nurses.
Main Methods:
- A pilot program was implemented involving 23 PACU RNs.
- Participants completed a self-paced module focusing on anesthetic agents.
- Nurses then engaged in an anesthesia and surgical observation phase.
- Post-program evaluations were conducted to gather feedback.
Main Results:
- The pilot program aimed to enhance understanding of sedation, analgesia, and anesthetic techniques.
- Participant evaluations indicated a positive learning experience.
- The self-paced module combined with observational learning was found to be rewarding.
Conclusions:
- The pilot educational program successfully broadened the knowledge base of PACU RNs.
- This blended learning approach, incorporating self-study and observation, is a viable and effective method for continuing education in PACU nursing.
- Further implementation of such programs can improve the quality of postanesthesia care.