Effects of Multiplayer Virtual Patient Simulation on Nursing Students: A Binational Quasi-Experimental Study

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Medical Simulation
• Digital Health

Background:

• Holistic nursing care for complex conditions like pressure ulcers can be enhanced through cultural collaboration.
• Virtual patient simulations offer innovative tools for nursing education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of multiplayer, interactive, and non-interactive virtual patient simulations on nursing students' knowledge, effectiveness perception, satisfaction, and self-confidence in managing pressure ulcers.
• To compare the effects of different simulation modalities among Portuguese and Turkish nursing students.

Main Methods:

• A quasi-experimental, pre-posttest design study involving 52 nursing students in Turkey and Portugal.
• Data collected using validated instruments measuring knowledge, simulation effectiveness, satisfaction, and self-confidence.
• Qualitative analysis of themes related to clinical competence, reflective practice, and simulation experience.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements in knowledge regarding preventive measures for pressure ulcers were observed in the experimental group.
• The experimental group showed enhanced perceived simulation effectiveness, including learning and confidence.
• Nursing students reported higher satisfaction and self-confidence in pressure ulcer management after participating in multiplayer virtual simulations.

Conclusions:

• Multiplayer, interactive virtual patient simulation is an effective educational tool for improving nursing students' knowledge and skills in pressure ulcer management.
• Virtual simulation enhances perceived effectiveness, satisfaction, and self-confidence, preparing students for clinical readiness.
• This technology supports the development of clinical competence and reflective practice in pressure injury care.