Fidelity's Effect on Student Perceived Preparedness for Patient Care

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to explore students' perception of how well their learning needs were met by (a) comparing high- versus low-fidelity simulation groups within simulated and traditional clinical environments and (b) comparing simulated versus traditional clinical environments based on high- and low-fidelity groups.MethodThe quasi-experimental study design was implemented with a convenience sample of nursing students enrolled in the fundamental/assessment course and laboratories during the first clinical semester of a five-semester program.ResultsAfter the simulation and traditional clinical experiences were finished, participants completed the Leighton Clinical Learning Environment Comparison Survey. Participants in the high-fidelity group perceived their learning needs was better that when compared with the low-fidelity group.ConclusionsFidelity of the mock hospital unit simulation as the initial clinical experience did impact the student's perception of how well their learning needs were met. Students perceived high-fidelity simulation as an equal to traditional clinical experience in meeting their learning needs.