Be prepared - Using web-based technology to prepare nursing students for a clinical placement in the emergency department

Nursing students undertaking a clinical placement in the Emergency Department (ED) have an excellent opportunity to develop their skillset in the management of acute unwell patients (Williams & Palmer, 2014). However, current literature suggests that many students experience a degree of stress and apprehension prior to attending these clinical placements. This can result in a reduction in confidence, lack of knowledge application and clinical skill retention. Preparing students for this unfamiliar environment is essential in order to ensure students can engage fully with this unique learning opportunity (Morell and Ridgeway, 2014; Woods et al, 2014).

In order to explore final year nursing students’ concerns about attending a clinical placement in the ED, an explanatory sequential mixed methods study was undertaken using an online survey and focus groups. Data from this study then informed the development, implementation and evaluation of the online educational resource (www.ed-areyouprepared.com). This website consists of a repository of topic-specific modules, comprising of YouTube videos, external website links, interactive media, reading material and research articles. The aim of this educational resource was to create an innovative educational environment that would address the key areas of concern identified by the students. Ultimately helping them better prepare for a clinical placement in this challenging clinical environment.

An expert web designer was engaged to assist with create and design the website. In developing the online educational resource there were a number of key features that were considered to ensure an optimal user experience. This included website: structure and layout; navigation; graphical representation; interactivity; content utility and accuracy; simplicity; and readability. To promote the website, a Facebook™ campaign involving the creation of a featured link specific to the ARE YOU PREPARED™ website was commenced. This provided a platform to promote the website, develop an online presence and reach a global audience through social sharing.

The findings from this mixed methods study suggest that nursing students are inadequately prepared for a clinical placement in the ED. While this online educational resource is primarily designed for nursing students, other students from other healthcare professionals may find using the resource of benefit.

All rights reserved. Copyright © 2019, IATED.