Physician Associate Students' Experience of Anatomy Dissection.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Anatomy Dissection
• Physician Assistant/Associate (PA) Studies

Background:

• The physician assistant/associate (PA) role has expanded globally, including in Europe.
• Limited research exists on PA students' perspectives regarding anatomy dissection and its impact on professional identity.
• This study addresses the gap in understanding the student experience of anatomy dissection within a PA program.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the experiences and perspectives of PA students during anatomy dissection.
• To understand how anatomy dissection influences the development of professional identity in PA students.
• To gather insights for improving the anatomy dissection curriculum and student orientation.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving semi-structured interviews with PA students from the first two cohorts.
• Thematic inductive analysis was used to identify common themes and patterns in student responses.
• Ten participants shared their reflections on anatomy dissection experiences, including expectations and coping strategies.

Main Results:

• Students' expectations of dissection involved preconceptions, sensory experiences (smell), and emotional responses.
• Coping strategies included peer discussion, viewing the cadaver as a patient, and personal naming conventions.
• Key themes emerged regarding respect, compassion, teamwork, bereavement awareness, and organ donation.

Conclusions:

• Anatomy dissection significantly impacts PA students' emotional and professional development.
• Understanding student perspectives is crucial for designing effective anatomy curricula.
• Recommendations are provided for enhancing the orientation and educational experience of future PA students.