High-fidelity patient simulation: considerations for effective learning

This article explores a case of the implementation of high-fidelity simulation (HFS) in an undergraduate preregistration nursing program in a Canadian school of nursing. A small practice collaborative project to develop reusable simulation resources for team-based simulations is described, using HFS technology. Considerations for effective learning resulting from faculty and student evaluations of the project are discussed. Students identified positive learning experiences and indicated that real-time patient status changes proved valuable to them. Also, using these techniques offered a safe environment for improving competence. The use of reflective debriefing appeared to be a focal area for learning that requires emphasis in the planning of HFS experiences. This template, team-focused learning approach also appeared to offer a cost-efficient strategy for HFS.