Teaching Situational Awareness in Clinical Settings Using the GREAT Mnemonic

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Patient Safety
• Clinical Assessment

Background:

• Developing situational awareness is crucial for nursing students entering clinical practice.
• This essential skill, vital for patient safety, is frequently underdeveloped or assumed.
• Nurses require rapid assessment abilities to identify immediate patient needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the GREAT mnemonic as a tool for nursing students.
• To enhance the development of situational awareness in early clinical encounters.
• To provide a structured approach to patient safety and quality assessment.

Main Methods:

• Development of the GREAT mnemonic (G-Grievance, R-Response, E-Environment, A-Assessment, T-Team).
• Application of the mnemonic in simulated or early clinical nursing education.
• Focus on critical elements for initial patient assessment.

Main Results:

• The GREAT mnemonic offers a straightforward method for students.
• It aids in remembering key patient safety and quality assessment components.
• Facilitates quicker and more effective initial patient evaluations.

Conclusions:

• The GREAT mnemonic can improve nursing students' situational awareness.
• It serves as a practical tool for foundational patient assessment skills.
• Emphasizes the importance of structured assessment for patient safety.