Impact of Content Reinforcement of Body Tissues on Knowledge Retention in Nursing Students

Abstract

The study of human anatomy and physiology is critical in the BScN program to ensure the competency of students within theory and clinical practice. Despite this acquisition and retention of these fundamental concepts within nursing and other health-related programs have shown to be concerningly low. Numerous studies have shown a dramatic decline in retention over time as medical students lose up to 33% of their anatomical knowledge within the first year of acquisition and 50% by the second year. Additionally, many nursing students regard these courses as content-heavy, difficult, and anxiety-inducing, which further provide barriers to acquisition and application. Educational deficits and a lack of knowledge retention in these subjects can have severe consequences including nursing errors, compromised patient care, and poor health-related outcomes for patients. In order to promote the safe and accurate transfer of this core knowledge, this study will investigate how interventional strategies such as content reinforcement and student participation impact retention.

Faculty Mentors: Dr. Raj Narnaware & Melanie Neumeier