The mock trial, which is an educational tool used in many different professions, is a scripted form of debate that teaches the critical thinking process. Using the mock trial approach, two nurse educators at one medical center taught nursing staff and students the major elements of evidence-based practice. The verdict to be decided in the trial was whether family-witnessed resuscitation should be used in practice. This article outlines the steps taken to carry out this endeavor. Nursing faculty can use this mock trial approach to teach a variety of concepts in nursing education.
Transfusions of red blood cells (RBCs) are frequently administered for a variety of clinical conditions. The use of an infusion pump has become common practice in nursing. Lack of evidence regarding hemolysis associated with transfusing older RBCs using an infusion pump led one 361-bed acute care suburban medical center to maintain its nursing policy to infuse all blood products by gravity. A combined simulated and clinical study was conducted with 25 units of RBCs. No significant hemolysis was demonstrated as measured by hemolysis index and serum potassium levels. As a result of this study, the nursing policy at the medical center was changed.
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