Using Simulation to Develop Undergraduate Nursing Students' Soft Skills

Despite longstanding recognition of their value, soft skills have been historically undervalued in nursing education compared to technical clinical competencies. The COVID-19 pandemic created a unique shift in nursing education, requiring periods of online instructional delivery that highlighted student needs for soft skills development. This article explores how an undergraduate community nursing simulation course adapted to a remote, discussion-based format during the pandemic, providing an unexpected but powerful space to cultivate essential soft skills. We use reflective observations to identify challenges in areas such as person-centered care, emotional sensitivity, accessible communication, and receiving feedback. The experience highlighted the need to rebalance curricula to more deliberately integrate soft skills development alongside technical training. Recommendations include suggestions for structuring simulations, utilizing standardized patients, and tailoring feedback to foster a resilient, communicative, and well-rounded nursing workforce.