Authors

  1. Tait, Mindy L. PhD, CRNP-BC

Article Content

Pharmacology courses require a blend of memorization and application of content. As educators prepare students to take the Next Generation NCLEX (NGN), consideration should be given to class activities that support the integration of knowledge and practice and prepare prelicensure students to begin applying clinical judgment when presented with clinical information. One approach to applying knowledge regarding the administration of warfarin and the corresponding laboratory values is to create a document that can be used in class, requiring students to highlight the correct action for a client based on the international normalized ratio (INR). This document simulates the highlight table-type testing item that will be a part of the NGN. To reinforce knowledge about the use of warfarin and required laboratory values, a table was created providing INR levels with the optional actions: decrease the dose, continue the dose, or increase the dose. The students worked together in groups to evaluate the INR values, make decisions based on the information presented in lecture, and highlight the appropriate action. The activity was provided to the students 1 week prior to the course examination. Debriefing included a review of the appropriate actions and rationale and incorporated client teaching and safe administration, including the antidote. Students related after the course examination increased confidence when approaching questions about warfarin. This activity could be modified for any nursing course to reinforce difficult content.