Simulation Usage in Nursing Fundamentals: Integrative Literature Review

Simulation is a transformational tool for nurse educators as they strive to develop students who are skilled in critical thinking, communication, and psychomotor skills. Implementation of simulation often begins in fundamental nursing courses and is then threaded through entire programs. These courses offer high levels of laboratory access, which focuses on skill development and clinical preparation. This article reviews current evidence as it relates to simulation application in foundational nursing education. Findings from this study affirm the effectiveness of simulation as an educational tool. It promotes cognitive and psychomotor results equivalent to traditional methods with higher levels of faculty satisfaction and critical thinking development.