High-fidelity nursing simulation: impact on student self-confidence and clinical competence

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Medical Simulation

Background:

• Developing safe nursing practice in entry-level students is crucial.
• Limited data exists on high-fidelity patient simulation's effectiveness for novice nurses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between simulation and nursing student self-confidence and clinical competence.
• To report a novel method for measuring these attributes in entry-level nursing students.

Main Methods:

• A quasi-experimental, quantitative study involving 53 baccalaureate students.
• Students were in traditional or simulation-enhanced labs during their first clinical rotation.
• Self-confidence and clinical competence were measured using the Lasater Clinical Judgment Rubric.

Main Results:

• Overall improvement in student self-confidence and competence was observed throughout the semester.
• High-fidelity patient simulation did not yield statistically significant enhancements in these attributes.
• No significant difference was found between simulation-enhanced and traditional laboratory groups.

Conclusions:

• Simulation alone may not be sufficient to significantly enhance self-confidence and competence in entry-level nursing students.
• Further research is needed to develop and evaluate teaching strategies that promote skill transfer from simulation to clinical practice.
• Effective strategies are required to bridge the gap between laboratory learning and real-world clinical application for nursing students.