Abstract
AIM: The aim of the study was to examine effects of high-fidelity simulation and computerized case studies in an advanced medical-surgical course.
BACKGROUND: The challenges of coordinating clinical education and desire to utilize innovative methods of teaching were the impetus for course design.
METHOD: A retrospective review compared HESITM specialty exam scores for groups of the newer and former course design. In the newly configured course, students alternated weekly between simulation and computer-assisted case studies and traditional clinical experiences.
RESULTS: Quantitative methods were utilized to analyze data; HESI specialty exam scores were determined to be statistically significantly higher for the groups of the newer design model.
CONCLUSION: Incorporating case studies and high-fidelity simulation on a biweekly basis may be the reason for improved performance.