The Role of Virtual Simulation in De-Escalating a Patient Demonstrating Escalating Behavior

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Patient Safety
• Aggression Management

Background:

• Undergraduate nursing students often lack preparedness in managing patients with escalating aggressive behaviors during clinical placements.
• Virtual simulation offers a promising avenue for developing confidence and competence in de-escalation skills.
• This study investigates the impact of virtual simulation on nursing students' self-perceived de-escalation abilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate undergraduate nursing students' perceptions of their confidence and success in de-escalation skills.
• To assess the effectiveness of a virtual simulation intervention in enhancing de-escalation competence.
• To explore factors influencing students' comfort levels with de-escalation techniques.

Main Methods:

• A quantitative, one-group pretest-posttest design was employed.
• Thirty-three undergraduate nursing students participated in the study.
• Participants completed pre- and post-simulation surveys measuring de-escalation confidence and knowledge, alongside demographic and psychosocial well-being questionnaires.

Main Results:

• Virtual simulation positively impacted participants' confidence and feelings of success in de-escalation.
• Male students reported higher comfort levels in de-escalating aggressive behaviors.
• Students identifying as Caucasian also reported greater comfort with de-escalation techniques.

Conclusions:

• Virtual simulation is an effective educational tool for improving de-escalation skills among nursing students.
• Targeted de-escalation education can enhance student preparedness for managing aggressive patient behaviors.
• Further research may explore specific demographic influences on de-escalation confidence.