High-fidelity Simulation in Teaching Problem Solving to 1st-Year Nursing Students : A Novel Use of the Nursing Process

BackgroundThe efficacy of using high-fidelity simulation to facilitate 1st-year nursing students' learning of problem-solving skills has not been established.MethodThe authors tested the efficacy of using high-fidelity simulation to facilitate understanding of problem-solving skills among 1st-year nursing students. Knowledge and attitude changes were evaluated using pre- and posttests.Results/ConclusionsOf students who completed the pre- and postsimulation assessments, 82% showed a significant gain in knowledge. All students (114) showed a significant positive difference for multiple attitudinal items, including critical thinking skills, overall nursing knowledge, confidence, and communication. Facilitating acquisition of problem solving through the use of high-fidelity simulation is effective and welcomed by all participants in this study cohort. More research is needed to determine the long-term effects of this method.