My latest clinical rotation was in the Delivery Room for the OB concept in MCN. What are the advantages to student learning? The DR as a special area provides actual and real application of the concepts taught in the lecture part of MCN more particularly during the intrapartum stage of labor and delivery and immediate care of the newborn. The interventions are very focused, clear cut and outlined in a fashion wherein what is taught in the classroom, the students are able to experience very close resemblance to what was discussed. It brings real scenario to the students where they can assist in the actual delivery of the newborn and assist the mother during this difficult stage. This clinical area is able to offer such high-level of information processing that occurs in less than an hour at least for an ideal delivery. Also, they are able to communicate with the team during labor and delivery thus enhancing their communication and inter-professional collaboration skills in the area.
As with the disadvantages that I observed, it includes the following: there is always pressure on the students during actual delivery. The demand for a snappy demeanor is required by the situation. Students cannot just stare and wait for the instructor's signal. They have to move fast and quickly discern what is going on. Another disadvantage to student learning is the management of safe delivery during high-dopamine event such as this. There is always fear on the part of the instructor especially when students break important techniques or when they missed crucial steps. Students navigate complex ideas that rush through their heads and this abrupt mental processing sometimes lead to blackout or worst, trauma after duty.
From these illustrations, I go back to the previous topics we had last semester on simulation based education. This strategy at least for MCN, is very helpful to mitigate the disadvantages mentioned above.
