The Evaluation of Simulation in a Baccalaureate Nursing Program

BackgroundA public university acquired 4 high-fidelity simulators for integration into the undergraduate nursing curriculum. The purpose of this study was to assess learning after using the simulators in a laboratory setting in one nursing course.MethodStudents evaluated 4 simulation experiences for active learning, fidelity, and student satisfaction and confidence. An analysis of variance was completed with SPSS to determine the effectiveness of the simulation experiences.ResultsThe results of the evaluation demonstrate that fidelity is valued by students. Simulations that used role-playing integrated with communication techniques were scored highest by the students. The students were satisfied with the simulation experience and scores of self-confidence increased with every simulation experience.ConclusionsSimulation was successfully added to a medical-surgical class to enhance the clinical experience.