Can Virtual Simulation Replace Clinical Practical Training for Psychiatric Nursing?

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Virtual Simulation Technology
• Psychiatric Nursing

Background:

• COVID-19 pandemic necessitated shifts in nursing education.
• Virtual simulation emerged as a replacement for traditional clinical training in Korea.
• Psychiatric nursing practical training was significantly impacted.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore nursing students' experiences with virtual simulation in psychiatric nursing.
• To identify the perceived benefits and limitations of virtual simulation.
• To gather student feedback for improving virtual simulation methods.

Main Methods:

• Focus-group interviews were conducted with nursing students.
• Qualitative data analysis was used to identify themes.
• Experiences with virtual simulation in psychiatric nursing were investigated.

Main Results:

• Students felt safer with virtual patients but noted limitations.
• Virtual simulation served as a bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
• Key areas for improvement in virtual simulation were identified, including the need for supplementation.

Conclusions:

• Virtual simulation aids in acquiring psychiatric nursing knowledge and skills safely.
• Limitations exist in virtual simulation's ability to fully replace clinical practice.
• A collaborative approach involving students and educators is crucial for optimizing virtual simulation effectiveness.