In order to learn new ways to provide evidence-based care, and to have the 
opportunity to discuss these advancements with peers and senior colleagues, nurses across BSUH NHS Trust set up study days. The study days inform their practice, provide new content, and include training using simulation tools.
In the Intensive Care Unit, Emmie Baker-Larner wanted to improve her team’s study days, and used BSUH Charity support to help. She requested neuroanatomy models (3D models) to help bring new research and treatment methods to life.
When asked about the inspiration for the purchase, Emmie replied, “We wanted to provide something tactile and 3-D for the staff to use when doing their neuro study days – this is especially helpful during discussions about the cranial nerves and blood supply to the brain. 2-D pictures really don’t help advance understanding, but having a life size model which they can take apart really brings it alive!”
Practice Development colleague Gavin with today’s Neuro Development Programme for ITU Nurses
Having the 3D models help make difficult neuroanatomy concepts easier to understand. The nursing team can now see and touch the conditions they learn about, bringing a whole new dimension to their further education. Emmie and the team find it particularly useful when discussing the skull, as they now get a sense of how damage on the inside ‘roughness’ of the skull harms the brain during certain types of injury.
Additionally, this training will also help staff not only identify the location of a patient’s brain injury, but also link the injury location to potential deficits patients might experience. By doing this, nurses will be able to predict and prepare for ensuring patients receive individualised care based on their specific needs.
Overall, Emmie shared, “The staff have definitely found using the models helpful.”
