Nursing students' experiences and perceptions of an anatomy laboratory session: Mixed methods study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Nursing Anatomy
• Experiential Learning

Background:

• Many nursing programs lack essential anatomy laboratory components.
• Exposure to cadaveric material is often absent in nursing curricula.
• This study addresses the gap in understanding student experiences in anatomy labs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine nursing students' perceptions and experiences in an anatomy laboratory session.
• To assess the impact of anatomy labs on learning, emotions, and satisfaction.
• To identify motivators for participation and areas for improvement in anatomy education.

Main Methods:

• A mixed methods approach was employed with 223 nursing students from two different programs.
• Quantitative data collected via closed-ended questionnaires assessed learning, emotional experiences, and satisfaction.
• Qualitative data from open-ended questions explored reasons for participation and suggestions.

Main Results:

• High levels of satisfaction were reported following the anatomy laboratory session.
• Positive attitudes and learning experiences correlated with increased professional identification.
• Satisfaction was linked to perceived learning quality and inversely related to negative emotional experiences.

Conclusions:

• Anatomy laboratory sessions are highly valued by nursing students, fostering deeper learning.
• Integrating anatomy labs strengthens students' connection to the nursing profession.
• Recommendations include incorporating anatomy labs to enhance nursing education and professional identity.