5 Ways Students Benefit From Our Cadaver Lab

Have you ever wondered what a cadaver lab is? And what the importance of a cadaver is in studying anatomy? Read on to learn why cadaver labs are vital for learning.

A cadaver lab uses frozen cadavers for hands-on training, surgical advancement and classroom anatomy education. At Nebraska Methodist College, students have the opportunity to learn about the human body beyond the traditional classroom thanks to our human cadaver laboratory. As a component of NMC’s Human Anatomy and Physiology courses, the lectures and demonstrations provided in the cadaver lab benefit students in a variety of ways.

What is the importance of a Cadaver lab?

Top Benefits of a Cadaver Lab

1. Hands-on Experience That Solidifies Learning

Discussions of the muscular system along with all relevant nomenclature are one thing, but that’s a bit like knowing a date in history without understanding the political and societal movements that shaped that world event. Actually getting the chance to see the musculature of real cadavers in the lab creates an active learning environment that allows students to have a hands-on experience that brings learning full circle.

2. A Better Understanding of How All Bodies Are Different

While a textbook can describe an “average” condition, no two people are alike. One of the most surprising things for students in the cadaver lab is seeing these differences and discovering that while all humans do have the same basic anatomy, there are wide variations in how that anatomy appears.  Factors such as gender and health status are just the tip of the iceberg for what make each and every one of us a unique individual. 

3. Seeing the Effects of Disease Firsthand

Learning about normal anatomy is critical, but being able to point out pathology in the human body is also a real advantage to individuals in the healthcare field. Cadaver dissection allows students to find the pathologic processes that have happened on a large scale, things like tumor formations, enlarged organs or past surgical procedures. It can be truly eye-opening for students to see the effects of diseases within the human body beyond what a textbook is capable of showing.

4. An Appreciation for the Donor

Often, one of the most compelling experiences for students is how much they come to respect the gift that has been given to them by the donor. Over time, they realize what an important learning experience this is and appreciate that it was made possible because someone chose to donate their body for the good of society.  Without these special people, it would be nearly impossible for tomorrow’s healthcare leaders to get the education they need. 

5. A Unique Advantage for Undergrads

Nebraska Methodist College’s cadaver lab is accessible to BSN students as well as the majority of the associate degree allied health programs. Having the lab at the undergraduate level is a rare benefit – one that most institutions don’t have on their campuses and that our students really value. 

We’re committed to providing the best learning environment possible, and our cadaver lab is just one example of how we’re making that happen.  

If you want to make a difference in the lives of others, check out Nebraska Methodist College to further your education and start a life-changing career.