The Influence of the Dedicated Education Unit Clinical Model on Standardized Test Scores.

Abstract

While the dedicated education unit (DEU) clinical model is being increasingly integrated into prelicensure nursing programs, a lack of research investigating objective measures of this model is evident. Standardized test scores were compared between students who had a DEU experience and those completing the same rotation in a traditional model. Although no statistically significant differences were noted, some scores were higher for students in the DEU model. Findings suggest the DEU does not negatively impact scores, making it a valid alternative to the traditional model. Further research is needed as few studies have investigated objective outcomes for the DEU model.