Development of Clinical Skills in Primary Medical Care Using Authentic Learning for Nursing Students at Boromarajonani College of Nursing, Nakhon Ratchasima

Abstract

This participatory action research aimed to study the development and outcomes of clinical skills in primary medical care using authentic learning for nursing students at the Boromarajonani College of Nursing, Nakhon Ratchasima. The study involved 123 participants, including 102 fourth-year nursing students, 7 instructors, and 14 clinical preceptors, selected through purposive sampling based on specified criteria. Data collection tools included behavior observation forms, clinical skills assessment forms, and questionnaires. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations, while qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis. The findings revealed that: 1) The current situation in teaching the primary care clinical course aimed to equip students with knowledge and skills in primary care. The use of authentic learning was suitable, as the college had adequate resources and high-quality training sites that actively supported the practicum. 2) The development of clinical skills in primary medical care for nursing students consisted of three steps: (1) preparation, (2) implementation, and (3) evaluation. 3) The outcomes indicated an overall improvement in the students’ clinical skills in primary medical care (M = 3.94, SD = .49) with high levels of skill development in various aspects. The screening skill (M=4.04, SD=.55) had the highest mean value, followed by the procedure skill (M=4.03, SD=.50) and the condition assessment skill (M=3.77, SD=.44), respectively. Therefore, theoretical learning should be developed using realistic situations and practical training, while leaving enough time to prepare before practicing and focusing on developing knowledge and skills related to assessing patient conditions and coordinating work with all relevant parties.