Simulation evaluation using a modified Lasater Clinical Judgment Rubric.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Clinical Simulation
• Healthcare Professional Development

Background:

• The Lasater Clinical Judgment Rubric (LCJR) is a validated tool for assessing clinical judgment in simulated environments.
• Revisions to the LCJR aimed to enhance its utility by incorporating numeric grading and clarifying performance expectations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the implementation of a modified LCJR for evaluating senior nursing students within a simulation laboratory setting.
• To assess the effectiveness of the revised rubric in measuring clinical competency.

Main Methods:

• A two-year study involving senior Bachelor of Science in Nursing students (Phase I: n=86; Phase II: n=102).
• Utilized high-fidelity simulation scenarios for student evaluations.
• Employed a modified Lasater Clinical Judgment Rubric for performance assessment.

Main Results:

• The modified LCJR provided a more holistic assessment of student performance compared to traditional procedural checklists.
• The rubric established objective criteria for evaluating clinical competency in a simulated setting.
• Demonstrated improved clarity and measurability of student performance outcomes.

Conclusions:

• A robust rubric is crucial for evaluating nursing student performance in simulation, emphasizing clinical reasoning.
• The modified LCJR facilitates objective, numeric assessment of clinical judgment, vital for patient safety.
• This approach supports the development of essential clinical reasoning skills in future nurses.