Simulation in Nursing Education
Submitted by: LaDonna Northington, DNS, RN
There is no question that nursing education over the past decades has reached new heights. With the use of advanced simulation tools, such as low, mid, and high-fidelity mannequins, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR), student learning is enhanced by providing realistic and interactive experiences. The use of these tools has promoted the creativity of faculty in creating ‘real-life’ scenarios for student learning. Simulated learning environments allow students to experience potentially high-risk and/or low-volume (respiratory/cardiac arrests, complicated child births, violence, and patient demise) scenarios, which they may not encounter in clinical experiences, all while in a safe and controlled environment.
The use of simulation in nursing education provides several benefits to student learning. When students can ‘perform’ hands-on care in scenarios, it helps them refine skills. Examples might include assessment, medication administration, sterile techniques, and procedures. When presented with a case scenario, students must integrate theoretical learning as they navigate the skills needed for the scenario.
The safe learning environment of simulation allows for self-reflection. Debriefing provides immediate feedback and allows students to review their actions and identify areas for improvement. The more the students are exposed to simulated scenarios, the more they will be able to develop clinical reasoning and decision-making. These safe spaces for developing these skills will better prepare students for ‘real-world’ complex situations.
Often, scenarios in simulated environments involve communication with other health professionals, including nurses, physicians, pharmacists, therapists, administrators, and family members. Developing communication skills is an essential skill that will be needed to provide safe, quality care to ‘real’ patients.
In schools where some clinical experiences may be limited, simulation can be used (if allowed by Boards of Nursing) as an alternative to clinical experiences to ensure that students have hands-on experiences before entering real healthcare settings.
The introduction of simulation as a part of nursing education has enhanced student learning by improving clinical decision making (which ultimately improves competence), confidence, and preparedness, impacting quality care and better patient care outcomes. These tools provide realistic, hands-on training experiences that enhance learning, critical thinking, and clinical skills.
Overall, simulation has revolutionized nursing education by improving clinical preparedness, boosting confidence, improving communication skills, and ultimately leading to safer, more well-rounded, and competent nurses to provide safer, quality nursing care to patients.