The Electrolyte Workshop: A Multimedia Case-Based Resource for Learning about Hyponatraemia

Abstract

Abstract Introduction This electrolyte workshop provides students and clinicians with the opportunity for simulated practice in managing electrolyte and acid-base disorders. The underlying teaching approach emphasizes relevant physiology, deductive reasoning, and quantitative analysis. Methods The resource includes one case on acute hyponatremia and one on chronic hyponatremia. The second case includes an interactive treatment simulation. The underlying teaching approach is built on relevant physiology and makes use of real cases and storytelling to engage the learner. Results The workshop has been used at Stellenbosch University's Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences to supplement teaching to postgraduate trainees in internal medicine, nephrology, and anesthesiology as well as to undergraduate medical students. Informal feedback has been uniformly positive, with many requests to develop additional cases. Discussion Educators are welcome to use this workshop as a real-world example to make the case for a shift in the way e-learning resources are developed and implemented at their institutions.

Keywords

• Physiology
• Simulation
• Multimedia
• Acid-Base
• Electrolytes
• Nephrology