Simulation: a day in the life of a pediatric nurse

Due to the increasing number of students in nursing programs and the decreasing number of available pediatric hospital clinical sites, many academic institutions have expanded their simulation experiences to supplement the pediatric clinical experience. This article provides a synopsis of the creativity used to construct a 6- to 7-hour clinical day within a children's hospital simulation at a small rural college in the southeastern United States. From the beginning of the creation of a historic building to the finalization of a true simulation laboratory in a new state-of-the-art facility, this synopsis discusses the trials and tribulations encountered in providing students with an experience that will assist them to utilize critical thinking and maximize clinical competence in the health care setting.