The idea for Instructional Dermatology Surface Models (IDSMs) was conceived after a tour in a simulation lab.
During the tour, the lack of available dermatology education tools became apparent. The initial idea was to
manipulate a high-resolution photograph of a melanoma and print it on transparent, flexible plastic.
The team took the first surface model to the simulation lab and positioned it on the arm of a mannequin and
on a human forearm. The original prototype was realistic and convincing. It appeared that the mannequin and the human model had a melanoma lesion.
The InstructiDerm™ team is composed of Drs. Ousley, Gentry, and Short. The three partners are Doctors of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioners,
and Associate Professors. Dr. Ousley teaches at the University of North Georgia, Department of Nursing and Dr. Gentry and Dr. Short teach at East Tennessee State
University College of Nursing.