The Development and Application of a New Problem Based Learning Module for Students in an Advanced Practice Nurse Program for Oncology

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purposes of this study were to develop a problem based learning (PBL) module for cancer symptom management and oncology emergencies, and to evaluate the module after applying it for students in an advanced practice nurse program for oncology. METHODS: This study was a methodological research project. We invited a total of 13 graduates from an advanced practice nurse program to evaluate topics for the PBL module development. Five experts developed a PBL module for a selected topic. Eight students from an advanced practice nurse program participated in the PBL learning experience and evaluated their learning experiences. RESULTS: Tumor lysis syndrome, pain, disseminated intravascular coagulation and hypercalcemia were evaluated to be the most relevant and needed topics for the module. Oncology emergency PBL module-tumor lysis syndrome was developed through expert validation. Evaluation of PBL learning was 3.76 (out of 4 points) in a pilot test. CONCLUSION: The new PBL module provided a positive learning experience to students. The new PBL module can be used as the standardized clinical practice education in the oncology advanced practice nurse program and developing further PBL modules for different topics is recommended.