Intentional Application of Nursing Theory in Simulated Practice

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Simulation-Based Learning
• Nursing Theory Application

Background:

• Clinical experience is crucial for nursing students.
• Integrating theoretical knowledge with practical skills can be challenging.
• Traditional clinical days may be supplemented or replaced by innovative methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a simulation-based learning experience.
• To assess student confidence in applying Locsin's technology competency as caring in nursing theory.
• To determine if simulation can replace a clinical day for senior baccalaureate nursing students.

Main Methods:

• A simulation focused on nursing theory was implemented for 37 senior baccalaureate students.
• Pretest-posttest self-evaluations measured student confidence.
• Dependent t-tests were used to analyze changes in confidence levels.
• One-on-one debriefing sessions facilitated discussion on theory application.

Main Results:

• Students showed significant improvement in confidence using nursing theory in practice post-simulation.
• Confidence increased in describing critical care equipment and monitoring technology.
• The simulation effectively provided experience in applying nursing theory.

Conclusions:

• Simulation-based learning, coupled with debriefing, is an effective method for enhancing nursing students' confidence.
• This approach successfully integrates nursing theory with practical skills, potentially replacing traditional clinical days.
• Intentional design of simulation and debriefing is key to successful theoretical application in nursing practice.