Using Simulation to Teach Home Health Care.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Simulation

Background:

• Home Healthcare (HHC) presents unique challenges and opportunities for nursing professionals.
• Simulation-based learning is an increasingly utilized pedagogical approach in healthcare education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the development, implementation, and outcomes of a Home Healthcare simulation experience.
• To assess the impact of the simulation on nursing students' perceived learning benefits and career intentions.

Main Methods:

• A quasi-experimental pre/posttest design was employed.
• 108 nursing students participated in an 8-hour HHC simulation.
• Data were collected on perceived learning gains and influence on HHC career desire.

Main Results:

• 93% of students found the simulation helpful for their learning.
• 57.4% of students reported an increased desire to work in HHC post-simulation.
• The HHC simulation demonstrated positive learning outcomes.

Conclusions:

• The HHC simulation positively impacted nursing students' learning and career aspirations.
• The simulation experience is valuable and should be continued for future nursing student cohorts.