Manikin Versus Web-Based Simulation for Advanced Practice Nursing Students

BackgroundAdvanced practice nurses (APNs), such as Acute Care Nurse Practitioners and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists, work in complex settings. Our aim was to compare Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist students' level of knowledge, attitude, and skills related to managing acutely ill patients between those participating in manikin versus Web simulation.MethodsA quasi-experimental pre–post test convenience sample design was used. Graduate nursing students were randomized to manikin or Web-based training. Competency was measured by self-assessment and scored by objective evaluators.ResultsManikin group scored greater than Web group in post-training observed performance mean scores, 70% versus 63%, p = .02. The manikin group had significantly improved scores on self-assessment of their practice ability after training (47% vs. 75%, p = .001).ConclusionsThese results support the role of simulation as a successful application of technology to educate advanced practice nurses.