Innovative Use of Cadavers in Perioperative Nursing Orientation

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Nursing
• Simulation-Based Training

Background:

• Traditional perioperative nurse orientation often relies on manikins, which may limit the fidelity of skill acquisition.
• There is a need for innovative methods to improve the training of new perioperative nurses in a safe and effective manner.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an innovative perioperative nurse orientation curriculum utilizing human cadavers for enhanced simulation.
• To assess the impact of cadaver-based simulation on clinical judgment skills and learner satisfaction among new perioperative nurses.

Main Methods:

• The Periop 101 program incorporated human cadavers into simulation activities for practicing skills like surgical skin antisepsis.
• Participants underwent a two-phase, six-month orientation, with clinical judgment assessed using the Lasater Clinical Judgment Rubric at six weeks and 12 weeks.
• Skills were practiced in a dedicated simulation and bioskills laboratory setting.

Main Results:

• Mean clinical judgment scores increased significantly for all participants between the two evaluation periods.
• The use of human cadavers enhanced simulation fidelity and contributed to higher learner satisfaction.
• Participants reported practicing skills in a safe environment, reducing fear of patient harm.

Conclusions:

• Cadaver-based simulation is an effective and innovative method for perioperative nurse orientation.
• This approach improves clinical judgment, enhances skill acquisition fidelity, and increases learner satisfaction.
• Safe simulation environments are crucial for developing confident and competent new nursing staff.