Simulation-Based Ethics Education: Building Confidence and Competence in Nursing Students

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Medical Ethics
• Simulation-Based Learning

Background:

• Ethics education is crucial for nursing students.
• Simulation-based learning offers a unique approach to ethics training.
• Assessing student confidence and moral distress is vital.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a combined simulation and ethics education on nursing students.
• To assess changes in student confidence, efficacy, and moral distress.
• To explore student perceptions of ethics simulation as a preparation tool.

Main Methods:

• An in-class simulation session focused on an ethical dilemma was conducted.
• Quantitative (Likert scale) and qualitative data were collected via pre- and post-surveys.
• The Measure of Moral Distress-Healthcare Professionals tool was adapted for assessment.

Main Results:

• Students reported significant increases in confidence for handling ethical dilemmas.
• Confidence levels rose regarding physician collaboration and action selection in ethical situations.
• No significant increase in overall moral distress was observed among participants.

Conclusions:

• Ethics simulation is perceived by nursing students as a valuable and innovative educational tool.
• Simulation prepares students to manage future ethical challenges and anticipate moral distress.
• This approach enhances preparedness for real-world ethical scenarios in nursing practice.