End-Of-Life Simulation in Undergraduate Nursing Curricula: A Cross-Sectional Survey

The aim of this study was to explore end-of-life simulation in undergraduate nursing curricula in Australian and New Zealand institutions.

A cross-sectional descriptive research design was employed. The study is reported using the CROSS checklist.

A survey was distributed to 45 institutions with an accredited Bachelor of Nursing programme in Australia or New Zealand. The instrument comprised eight domains: simulation orientation, simulator type, simulation environment, instructional design, simulation event, pre-brief, debrief, and facilitation preparation and requirements.

Thirty institutions responded to the survey, with 25 suitable for data analysis. Eleven institutions included end-of-life simulation in their curriculum. The dominant modality used in the end-of-life simulation was high-technology manikins. All institutions used a validated approach to conducting the pre-brief and debrief. Variations were reported in the skill and clinical expertise required of end-of-life simulation facilitators and the approaches and modalities used in end-of-life simulations across institutions.

A small number of institutions reported including end-of-life simulations in their undergraduate nursing curriculum. This study found the end-of-life simulations integrated into undergraduate nursing curricula in Australia and New Zealand align with many elements of the Healthcare Simulation Standards of Best Practice. There were variations in the simulation modality and facilitation style used to deliver end-of-life simulations across institutions. While a pre-brief session was included, the elements covered and information conveyed to participants varied across institutions. Additionally, the content expertise required of simulation facilitators lacked clarity.

The influence the pre-brief has on the student learning experience requires further research. Moreover, the learning experiences of the participants in various simulation modalities, including the influence of SPs and debriefing approaches, warrant investigation. The role and impact of professional development and facilitator requirements, such as skills and clinical expertise, on the student learning experiences and outcomes in EOL simulation offer opportunities for further research.

There were no patient or public contributions in this study.