Anesthesia grand rounds: enhancing long-term knowledge retention of clinical information

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to enhance knowledge retention in the resident registered nurse anesthetist using evidence-based, up to date grand rounds presentations. A framework for grand rounds was created based on three themes identified in a review of the literature: peer-to-peer education, the use of audience response systems, and presentation style and formatting. Methodology: A series of interactive grand rounds sessions were integrated into the Nurse Anesthesia program (NAP) of a large, public university with the intention of promoting long-term retention of knowledge among 68 resident registered nurse anesthetists. A prospective quantitative study was performed by the administration of an exam immediately after the session and approximately eight weeks later to determine if the information presented was retained in the long-term. In addition, a survey to assess the thoughts, feelings, and perceived usefulness of the participants toward grand rounds was distributed to participants. Results: Findings of this research included the greatest retention of knowledge at eight weeks post-presentation among those with the most didactic and clinical experience. In addition, participant response was overwhelmingly positive, with the majority expressing that the peer presenters were effective, the sessions were held in a low-stress environment, and that the way in which the information was presented would prompt better recall in the clinical setting as well as potentially impact clinical practice changes. Implications for Practice: The nurse anesthesia resident can take this evidence-based, clinically relevant information and implement this knowledge in the clinical setting, potentially improving patient outcomes.DNPIncludes bibliographical reference