Integrating Clinical Prediction Rules Throughout the Curriculum

Context: Knowledge and understanding of how to evaluate and implement clinical prediction rules (CPRs) is necessary for athletic trainers, but there is a lack of information on how to best teach students about CPRs. Objective: To provide an overview of the derivation, validation, and analysis of the different types of CPRs and to provide examples and strategies on how to best implement CPRs throughout didactic and clinical athletic training curricula. Background: Clinical prediction rules are used in a variety of health care professions to aid in providing patient-centered care in diagnosis or intervention. Previous research has identified that many athletic trainers have a limited knowledge of CPRs and often do not implement them in clinical practice even if they do know about them. Using these evidence-based decision-making tools can help improve patient outcomes while also decreasing unnecessary medical costs. Description: This article discusses the derivation and validation of CPRs as well as how to implement the concepts of CPRs in multiple courses to allow students numerous opportunities to understand how CPRs can be beneficial. Clinical Advantage(s): Teaching students how to critically analyze CPRs and understand the derivation process of CPRs will develop students' decision-making skills and encourage students to be evidence-based clinicians. In addition, the teaching strategies described here aim to create dialogue between students and preceptors regarding evidence-based practice concepts. Conclusion(s): Athletic trainers must be able to function in the larger health care environment, and understanding how to correctly evaluate and apply CPRs will be helpful. Teaching students a variety of CPRs and how to evaluate their impact on clinical practice will prepare students to step into this role when they become independent clinicians.