Computer-Based Clinical Simulations Enhance Care Planning Skills of Dietetic Interns

Abstract A computer-based simulation system (CPSS) was developed to include three realistic scenarios of patients with cardiovascular disease. Beginning dietetic interns used either these simulations or an alternative computer tutorial (NCPT) during their internship orientation. During the subsequent eight weeks of clinical rotations, interns were evaluated weekly by their clinical preceptors. Performance ratings were collected using a 31-item rating form and a five-point Likert scale (1=Unacceptable performance, 5=Outstanding performance). Four categories of behaviors represented the nutrition care planning process: A=Obtaining Data; B=Interviewing Client; C=Analyzing Data; D=Developing Plan. Over the eight weeks of evaluation, linear regression analysis revealed a faster rate of improvement (p