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Development of a simulation for teaching fluid therapy
Author(s) -
Rawson Richard E.,
Dispensa Marilyn E.,
Goldstein Richard E.,
Nicholson Kimberly W.,
Vidal i Korf
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.22.1_supplement.765.2
Subject(s) - computer science , intervention (counseling) , balance (ability) , outcome (game theory) , clinical practice , intensive care medicine , management science , medicine , physical therapy , engineering , mathematics , nursing , mathematical economics
The course “Management of Fluid and Electrolyte Disorders” is taught using lectures and paper‐based case scenarios. While the latter provide an excellent basis for application of basic‐science concepts, they lack key components of genuine clinical cases that, by nature, are diverse, change over time, and respond in unique ways to therapeutic intervention. We developed a dynamic mathematical model using STELLA® software that simulates normal and abnormal fluid and electrolyte balance in the dog. The simulation outputs real‐time clinical data allowing students to develop a therapeutic plan based on their clinical assessment. Students administer fluids and supplements and the model responds in real‐time, requiring regular reassessment and intervention. Level of success is determined by clinical outcome including improvement, deterioration, or death. Underlying variables can be exploited to illustrate and apply concepts such as compartment volumes, endocrine responses, and dynamic mass balance. We expect that the simulation will allow students to improve clinical competency, apply fundamental principles in disparate contexts, and practice the “art” of fluid therapy without use of live animals.