Three-Dimensional Printing: Collaborative Nurse-Led Research

Area of Science:

• Engineering and Technology
• Biotechnology
• Healthcare Education

Background:

• Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology emerged in the 1980s, evolving from simple polymer layering to complex metal structures for aerospace.
• Advancements in 3D printing are largely driven by the engineering profession, with diverse applications extending beyond manufacturing.
• The National Institutes of Health supports 3D printing for biotechnology and healthcare modeling.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential of 3D printing in nursing education.
• To highlight the benefits of integrating 3D printing into nursing curricula and simulation laboratories.
• To emphasize the role of faculty buy-in and interprofessional collaboration in successful implementation.

Main Methods:

• Review of the historical development and current applications of 3D printing technology.
• Analysis of the potential benefits for nursing programs, including cost-efficiency and enhanced training materials.
• Discussion of strategies for successful integration, emphasizing faculty support and curriculum incorporation.

Main Results:

• 3D printing offers a cost-efficient method for creating specialty training materials and enhancing simulation laboratories in nursing programs.
• The technology facilitates the development of innovative solutions for pressing healthcare needs through collaboration.
• Successful implementation requires faculty buy-in and purposeful integration into the curriculum.

Conclusions:

• 3D printing presents significant opportunities to enrich nursing education, improve student learning, and foster interprofessional collaboration.
• Nursing programs can leverage 3D printing for advanced simulation and the creation of tailored educational tools.
• Adoption of 3D printing can lead to faculty publications and presentations, further advancing the field.