PDA-assisted simulated clinical experiences in undergraduate nursing education: a pilot study

Descriptive literature on use of personal digital assistants (PDAs) in nursing education exists; but, quantitative outcome-driven studies of efficacy are lacking. Few studies have explored the integration of technologies like simulated clinical experiences (SCEs) with informatics competencies.

The purpose of this pilot study was to determine if nursing students' knowledge and attitude scores following a PDA-assisted SCE would be equivalent to textbook-assisted scores.

Using a convenience sample of first-semester baccalaureate students and an equivalence design, multiple lessons were learned about the use of PDAs in the context of SCE.

Learning was supported through use of PDAs in place of traditional text references; students viewed PDAs as beneficial resources in the provision of care; PDA use prompted reflection and triggered important need-learning connections; orientation to the use of PDAs promoted positive student attitudes; and use of PDAs helped meet nursing informatics curricular requirements.