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Aligning Simulation-Based Education With Didactic Learning in Prelicensure Baccalaureate Nursing Education
Karen Weeks1, Elizabeth Herron, Holly Buchanan
1Author Affiliations: Assistant Professor (Dr Weeks) and Associate Professor (Drs Herron and Buchanan), School of Nursing, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, Virginia.
Simulation-based education significantly improved clinical judgment in new graduate nurses, bridging the gap between academic learning and practical nursing skills.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Education
- Clinical Judgment Development
- Healthcare Simulation
Background:
- A recognized gap exists between academic nursing knowledge and practical application in the healthcare setting.
- Nursing stakeholders advocate for the clinical judgment model to enhance professional competency.
- Bridging the academia-practice gap is crucial for effective nursing care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of simulation-based education on enhancing clinical judgment among nurses.
- To explore new graduate nurses' perceptions of their preparedness for professional practice.
- To identify strategies for improving nursing education and practice integration.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal, explanatory, mixed-methods research design was employed.
- Surveys using the Simulation Effectiveness Tool-Modified (SET-M) were administered at the beginning and end of the intervention.
- Qualitative interviews were conducted with new graduate nurses six months post-graduation.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements were observed in 12 out of 19 items on the SET-M post-intervention.
- Pre- and posttest survey responses indicated a measurable enhancement in clinical judgment.
- Statistical analysis using Mann-Whitney tests confirmed the effectiveness of the intervention.
Conclusions:
- Simulation-based education is an effective strategy for developing clinical judgment in nursing.
- Aligning didactic teaching with practical strategies strengthens nursing performance.
- Integrating simulation into nursing curricula can help bridge the gap between academia and practice.
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