(20) Deliberate Practice: Integration of CPR Concepts in the Classroom, Skills Lab, and Simulation

Abstract: Deliberate practice offers a foundation for learning experiences based on real-life situations through repetition. Single demonstrations of skill are often ineffective in determining mastery in undergraduate nursing students. Ninety-eight fourth-semester learners enrolled in the critical care course of a pre-baccalaureate program. A deliberate practice approach to learning was implemented in a fourth-semester undergraduate nursing course to evaluate learner knowledge, skills, and performance. Multiple activities comprised of skills stations, lectures, an ECG review, and a simulation-based experience were used to allow learners to gain mastery. Evidence in this project revealed that a combined SBE in the classroom and simulation lab helps learners retain knowledge. Learners reported this approach also improved their ability to critically think and their confidence in performance. The implementation of deliberate practice in the simulation environment allows for exposure to real-life circumstances in a controlled atmosphere, helping learners preserve information and understanding.