Imaging Teaching Module: Thoracic CT

There have been many recent changes in the healthcare; one is that we have seen more nurse practitioners (NPs) take on roles that are traditionally filled by physicians. This is leaving more NPs with the responsibility to order and interpret CT scans, including thoracic CTs, and then make treatment decisions based on these interpretations. Unfortunately, this is a skill that is taught in less than 5% of NP programs. This is currently inadequate for a skill that is required in order to provide quality care to patients. Misinterpretation of thoracic CTs can cause unnecessary risks to patients, including disability or even death. The importance of experience is widely acknowledged but not sufficient and there is invariably a need for supplementing with some form of education and reference tool. The purpose of this project was to develop an online educational module on thoracic CT scan interpretation for practicing nurse practitioners that will assist them in achieving competency in this skill. This project included four objectives, which were as follows: (a) to develop an easy to use online based educational module, (b) demonstration of improved knowledge after completion of the module, (c) submission of the module to the University of Utah to be used by students, (d) submission of a clinical reference guide for publication. The project included the following: a comprehensive review of the literature on the competency of advanced clinicians accuracy in interpreting radiographic studies, current resources for nurse practitioners to learn this skill, and reviewing the content to be included in the module; development of the module as an educational web based video; request for IRB approval; and piloting of the module by acute care nurse practitioner students on a voluntary basis. Thirteen out of 20 students completed all components of the module. Evaluation of learning was determined through pre and posttest scores, with pretest scores ranging from 40% to 90% with a mean of 60% and posttest scores ranged from 80% to 100% with a mean of 95%. Evaluation of the module was done by an anonymous questionnaire and reported 10 out of 13 students perceiving the overall module as useful. An abstract will be submitted for poster presentation to ensure dissemination. In summary, implementing an effective educational module improves the nurse practitioner students' ability to understand and accurately interpret thoracic CT scans. This improved clinical competency will lead to better patient management and clinical outcomes.