Project Alpha. A nursing elective implemented in a general systems theory curriculum

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Perioperative Nursing
• Surgical Patient Care

Background:

• The integration of specialized electives into nursing curricula is crucial for preparing students for contemporary healthcare demands.
• Perioperative nursing education equips students with vital skills for surgical patient care.
• Baccalaureate nursing programs aim to provide comprehensive, holistic patient care education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the benefits of a perioperative elective from both nursing education and practice perspectives.
• To assess the relevance of the elective's content to students' current studies and future career trends.
• To determine the value of perioperative nursing within the baccalaureate nursing curriculum.

Main Methods:

• The study involved a perioperative elective course.
• Student knowledge and skills acquisition were assessed.
• The impact on the affiliating healthcare agency was considered.

Main Results:

• The perioperative elective was found to be beneficial and timely for nursing students.
• Students gained knowledge and skills relevant to current education and future technological advancements.
• The elective provided the affiliating agency with a potential pool of qualified operating room nurses.

Conclusions:

• Perioperative nursing education is a valuable component of the baccalaureate nursing curriculum.
• Integrating perioperative electives strengthens nursing education and practice.
• This elective contributes to nursing's commitment to holistic patient care.