Navigating United States Nursing Education Standards: A Comparative Analysis of Simulation Regulations

This investigation compared state legislation and nursing board guidelines that govern simulation-based learning and clinical practice for prelicensure nursing students across the United States and the District of Columbia. Using simulation-based learning facilitates the development of nursing students' critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and clinical judgment safely and effectively. Well-structured simulations aid nursing students during their transition into practice through knowledge application, clinical decision making, and increasing self-confidence and self-efficacy.

This study used a comparative analysis methodology with a systematic approach.

The side-by-side comparison illustrates gaps in clinical and simulation guidelines across the U.S. and illuminates areas of improvement for legislation and policy change.

Findings support the need for clarity in legislative rules related to simulation and clinical practices that focus on evidence-based educational decision making and support students' transition to practice and readiness for the workforce.