Mind the gap: The integration of anatomy course contents with basic procedural skills

摘要

ObjectivesThis study investigated the value of procedural skill acquisition in low-fidelity simulation labs for students entering a clinical setting during the mandatory one-month nursing internship.MethodsWe conducted a course that combined gross anatomy knowledge with the teaching of simple procedural skills. We analysed 299 students' opinions and then compared them with their assessment outcomes.ResultsThe survey results showed general satisfaction of students with the simulation-based course. Regarding the role of procedural labs as an adequate enhancement for traditional anatomy labs, students considered the basic procedural skills course as a strong alternative for traditional anatomy lectures and labs. Moreover, a comparison of participants' pre- and post-course answers indicated a significant increase in their anatomy knowledge.ConclusionsThis study thus indicated a positive perception of students about a course that employed innovative educational measures. In this way, the positive impact of teaching anatomical knowledge through basic procedures was noted.