Peer Review

Arterial Blood Gas Demonstration

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Reviewed:: Jan 11, 2012 by Health Sciences

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Ratings

Overall Rating:

Content Quality:

Effectiveness:

Ease of Use:

Overview:: This learning object is a 6:14 minute video demonstrating the psychomotor technique of the collection of arterial blood from the radial artery in a healthy adult volunteer; useful as part of a training program for medical trainees and nurses required to perform this procedure. An oral description of each step of the procedure is included.
Type of Material:: This video simulates a patient situation; however, the demonstration is of an actual arterial blood withdrawal.
Recommended Uses:: Recommended uses are: • Demonstrate the Allen Test. • Demonstrate some difficulties associated with arterial blood withdrawal. • Useful for individual learning as a supplement to a comprehensive process in education on arterial blood collection.
Technical Requirements:: The technical requirements include a computer with high speed Internet access, audio capability and Adobe Flash Player. The video can be accessed with both Internet Explorer and Firefox.
Identify Major Learning Goals:: After viewing the video, the learning should be able to: • State the rational for performing the Allen's test. • Recognize the importance of assessing collateral blood flow prior to arterial blood withdrawal from the radial artery. • Discuss the proper procedure for accessing arterial blood from the radial artery. • Discuss the safety implications for handling of sharps.
Target Student Population:: The target population includes post-graduate nurses, medical students, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals who are required to collect blood with an arterial puncture.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:: Learner would benefit from prerequisite knowledge of infection control, concepts of personal protective equipment, safe handling of medical sharps, indications for performance of arterial blood gas sampling, and handling of the specimen to ensure accurate analysis.

Content Quality

Rating:
Strengths:: Clear and concise demonstration of technique of arterial puncture and blood collection. Excellent demonstration of Allen’s test. Detailed discussion and demonstration on site assessment and stabilization of the operative hand. Demonstrates correct action taken if initial stab is not successful with manipulation of needle without withdrawal through the skin.
Concerns:: The learning resource could be improved if it included: • Patient teaching • Site preparation explanation • The demonstrator was wearing protective eye wear • Explanation of the position of the needle bevel • Handling of used needle contravenes safe occupational health and safety standards. • Information on consent for the test

Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool

Rating:
Strengths:: The learning resource provides a realistic demonstration of the radial artery puncture.
Concerns:: Learning might be negatively impacted by lack of explanations associated with preparation for the procedure, patient teaching and site preparation. The video did not include the length of time pressure should be applied to the arterial puncture site after completion of the procures. The instructor would have to provide supplementary information.

Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty

Rating:
Strengths:: The video is easy to access and start-up. The learning resource is accessible from YouTube with simple on-screen controls. The video could also be embedded into another site.
Concerns:: Access to YouTube may be blocked by some institutions.

Other Issues and Comments:: Text box overlay on video directing users to website http://medicaleducator.co.uk claiming free access to more learning material. Site provide free trial period but is a commercial entity requiring subscription and registration for ongoing use.
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