An Interprofessional E-Learning Resource to Prepare Students for Clinical Practice in the Operating Room-A Mixed...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Nursing
• E-learning

Background:

• The operating room presents a challenging learning environment for students.
• Perceived stress and fear of errors can impede learning during clinical placements.
• Student preparedness is crucial for effective learning in high-stakes environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate nursing and medical students' perspectives on an e-learning resource designed to enhance operating room preparedness.
• To assess the impact of the e-learning tool on student stress and confidence levels.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods design was employed, including questionnaires and focus group interviews.
• Fifty-two students from nursing and medical programs participated.
• Data collected on demographics, resource utilization, and perceived preparedness.

Main Results:

• 79% of students reported the e-learning resource improved their preparedness for clinical placement.
• 93% of students recommended the resource for pre-clinical preparation.
• Video-based learning modules on practical procedures were most highly valued.

Conclusions:

• E-learning resources can enhance students' perceived preparedness for operating room clinical practice.
• Student involvement in resource development and evaluation is recommended.
• E-learning shows promise in mitigating pre-clinical anxiety and improving learning outcomes.