Authors

  1. Brokob, Marlena MSN, RN
  2. Apple, Brandi PhD, RN, CNOR, CNE
  3. Pendergraft-Horne, Krystal MSN, RN, FNP-C
  4. Woodley, Lisa PhD, RN, CNE, CHPN

Article Content

With the shift to Next Generation NCLEX (NGN) and competency-based learning, nurse educators are vital in readying students for real-world practice. We implemented unfolding case studies using artificial intelligence and online survey tools to mimic NGN questions, promoting clinical judgment development in a medical-surgical nursing course. We verified case accuracy, added detail, integrated the patient's story and records into Qualtrics, and constructed questions. Rank order Qualtrics questions assessed priority-setting skills. Qualtrics hot spot questions mirrored NGN hot spot questions, where students highlighted important patient data. Qualtrics pick, group, and rank questions emulated NGN Cloze questions. Matrix-style Qualtrics questions challenged students to evaluate patient outcomes as deteriorating, unchanged, or improving. Following the steps of nursing clinical judgment, students recognized and analyzed patient cues, prioritized hypotheses, generated solutions, and evaluated care outcomes. Students reviewed the cases and answered questions independently and then faculty facilitated extensive group discussion where students debated and further analyzed their responses. Using Qualtrics to mimic NGN-style questioning provided a rich learning environment within which students learned, discussed, debated, and problem-solved. Both students and faculty expressed positive feedback about this teaching technique. Students appreciated the supportive yet challenging learning environment and opportunity to hone clinical judgment skills before high-stakes assessments. Faculty found this teaching strategy afforded students opportunities to practice clinical judgment, enhanced faculty efficiency, and boosted student engagement.