The use of simulation with advanced practice nursing students.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Medical Simulation
• Advanced Practice Nursing

Background:

• Simulation is an emerging educational strategy in nursing.
• Limited research exists on simulation use in primary care advanced practice nursing programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current use of simulation in advanced practice nurse education.
• To describe an innovative simulation program for family nurse practitioner students.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a literature review using MEDLINE and CINAHL databases.
• Searched for descriptions of simulation programs for advanced practice nursing students.
• Provided a detailed description of a simulation program within a family nurse practitioner curriculum.

Main Results:

• The literature on simulation in primary care advanced practice nursing programs is scarce.
• Simulation appears to be an effective active learning strategy.
• Simulation can enhance knowledge and confidence in managing clinical situations for APN students.

Conclusions:

• Simulation holds potential as a valuable active learning strategy for advanced practice nursing students.
• Students and faculty can collaborate to develop tailored simulation experiences.
• Further research is needed on the educational outcomes of simulation programs for APN students.