Integrating an Obesity Simulation into Baccalaureate Nursing Education

As obesity becomes more prevalent, it is vital that student nurses understand the impact of obesity and have the tools and resources necessary to provide comprehensive patient care. This article describes the use of an evolving case study that combines a problem-based learning approach with standardized patient simulation as a unique method for the delivery of obesity education in a baccalaureate nursing program. Learners apply theoretical knowledge to a clinical scenario, which can enhance the ability to manage complex clinical situations. This teaching strategy broadens the traditional classroom approach to encourage learning that goes beyond understanding content and additionally focuses on the development of problem-solving skills. Additionally, the educational format aided the students in understanding the chronic nature of obesity and the challenges, both physical and psychological, that patients face. A simulation storyboard is presented to outline the details of the simulation and align the simulation with learning objectives. Teaching-learning strategies and evaluation methods for each stage of the simulation are described.