3D Printing and Mind Mapping in Clinical Orthopedic Nursing Education: A Comparative Randomized Controlled Trial

Background Clinical internships are crucial in nursing education, requiring interns to quickly merge theory with practice in a limited time. Purpose To assess integrating 3D printing and mind mapping in orthopedic nursing education. Methods A randomized controlled trial with 60 nursing interns was conducted. The control group (CG) received traditional teaching, the observation group (OG) was introduced to 3D printed models and mind mapping. Performance was evaluated through assessments and questionnaires. Results The CG score vs the OG score, Theoretical Assessment: 84.90 ± 4.79 vs 89.83 ± 2.94(P < 0.001). Practical Assessment: 80.70 ± 7.42 vs 89.57 ± 2.71(P < 0.001).Improvement in OG vs CG. Learning Interest: 21 vs 11(P = 0.01). Cognitive Abilities: 25 vs 18(P = 0.04). Self-directed Learning: 25 vs 10(P < 0.001). Communication and Collaboration: 24 vs.16(P = 0.03).Information Synthesis: 25 vs 21(P < 0.001). Conclusion Integrating 3D printing and mind mapping significantly enhances theoretical and practical performance, suggesting a promising approach for nursing interns.