Patient Deterioration Education: Evaluation of Face-to-Face Simulation and e-Simulation Approaches

•Both face-to-face and Web-based simulation approaches provided a sense of “what it actually feels like in a real emergency” with positive appraisal for the use of patient actors.•Both approaches enabled translation of theory into practice, the development of a systematic approach to care, and reported enhancements in performance.•Both approaches were positively endorsed by students.

BackgroundSimulation-based education is one strategy that may be used to teach nursing students to recognize and manage patient deterioration.MethodFinal-year preregistration nursing students (n = 97) completed three face-to-face laboratory-based team simulations with a simulated patient (actor) and 330 students individually completed a three-scenario Web-based simulation program: FIRST2ACTWeb™.ResultsBoth groups achieved moderate performance scores (means: face to face, 49%; e-simulation, 69%). Course evaluations were positive, skill gain showing a greater effect size in the face-to-face program than for e-simulation, and higher satisfaction and more positive appraisal.ConclusionFace-to-face simulation and e-simulation are effective educational strategies with e-simulation offering greater feasibility. Either strategy is likely to add value to the learning experience.