Problem based learning: Developing the triggers. Experiences from a first wave site

In recent years the professional bodies in nursing have been promoting the concept of nurses being analytical practitioners who are able to demonstrate critical thinking and problem solve in the clinical setting (UKCC, 1986; ENB 1994). Problem solving skills are widely recognised as an important part of nursing know-how, and educationalists are now required to use problem-based learning as a method within their teaching strategies (UKCC, 1999). Following the publication of Fitness for Practice (UKCC, 1999) concerning the future of nurse education in England 16 pilot sites evolved to implement the recommendations contained within the report. The purpose of this paper is to describe the approach taken in one first wave pilot site to developing the problem based scenarios for student nurse learning. It is hoped that our experiences will help other educationalists who are new to scenario or trigger development.