No abstract

The study was designed to compare the efficacy of controlled simulation mannequin (SM) assisted learning and case study presentation on knowledge and confidence of nurse practitioner (NP) students in managing a cardiac event. Twenty-three volunteer students were randomly assigned to the experimental (simulation) or control (case study presentation) group. All participants were instructed on atrial arrhythmias, were pre- and post-tested on knowledge and confidence, and completed an evaluation of the experience. There were no statistically significant differences in knowledge test scores, although the control group scored significantly higher on post- test confidence (p=.040). Both groups rated their experience as valuable. The simulation and case study presentation had similar outcomes. Additional research is needed to determine the effectiveness of this teaching modality.

Following the implementation of the GMC document Tomorrow's Doctors in 1993 the amount of time dedicated to anatomy in undergraduate curricula has been reduced. This has resulted in considerable disquiet among physicians and surgeons with regard to the anatomical knowledge of newly qualified doctors, and also amongst students. This study aimed to assess the perceived student need for anatomical teaching packages to support clinical attachments in the later years of the undergraduate medical curriculum. The views of two groups of students were obtained: Group A were at the beginning of their clinical attachments, whereas Group B had completed all clinical attachments and had sat the final examination. The majority of students indicated that there was a need for the development of a teaching package for anatomy (and other basic sciences) in the later stages of the undergraduate medical curriculum. A high proportion stated that the completion of these packages should be in a selfdirected manner with a staff member available. There was a difference between both groups in response to the best time to offer the packages, and in the clinical areas which might be prioritized in such a development. We conclude that the vertical integration of anatomy-perhaps through clinically focused teaching packages-would be welcomed by students as part of their clinical attachments. Clin. Anat. 22:267-272, 2009. V V C 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Based on the results of this study, an online, four-credit geriatric-focused course "Issues in Geriatric Management" was developed. The course is required in the acute care and adult NP programs. Eventually, this course will be offered as continuing education credit for practicing NPs. The offering of a course focused on geriatrics will help to better prepare NPs to care for the growing number of elderly in this country.