Simulated Community Spaces and Nurses' Practice Preparedness: A Thematic Inquiry

BackgroundWe report findings of a study examining how the construction of simulated spaces influences undergraduate nursing students' preparedness for practice.MethodsA descriptive, exploratory design comprising field observation, group interviews, and focus groups elicited data that were analyzed thematically.ResultsThe construction of simulation space influences how students respond to clinical contexts by highlighting tacitly held values, strengthening critical thinking, and promoting confidence.ConclusionsSimulation space is a physical reflection of the dominant values underpinning nursing curricula. Its design and construction can enhance students' preparedness for practice and is a critical feature of contemporary nurse education curricula.