Implementing Simulation Training for New Cardiothoracic Intensive Care Unit Nurses

- The creation and implementation of a simulation training program within a new graduate nurse internship are discussed.
- There are a number of important factors that need to be considered when designing custom simulation scenarios.
- Evaluation of the effectiveness of a simulation program using a validated tool is essential for success.

New critical care nurses struggle with knowledge application and low self-confidence. Internship programs are helpful; however, data on their effect on critical thinking and knowledge application are scarce. The use of high-fidelity simulation training is effective at improving provider learning and confidence. This article describes the design and implementation of a simulation training program for a nursing internship program in the cardiothoracic intensive care unit. The use of an educational framework to guide the process is also presented. Although it can be a time- and resource-intense effort, creating a custom program is effective in the training of new nurses.