Simulation in RN education in a North Dakota: Potential for increasing program capacities while decreasing clinical...

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Simulation
• Clinical Training

Background:

• Nursing program capacity is limited by clinical site availability and qualified faculty, particularly in rural areas.
• Simulation technology can replace up to 50% of clinical hours without negatively impacting student outcomes.
• The extent to which registered nursing (RN) programs in North Dakota (ND) utilize simulation is not well-documented.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the current utilization of simulation in ND RN programs.
• To identify barriers hindering increased simulation adoption.
• To determine if simulation hours are replacing clinical hours and if this is due to clinical placement shortages.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive study design was employed.
• A survey instrument was developed and distributed to all 14 nursing schools in North Dakota.
• Data were collected from 11 responding schools, representing 19 RN programs.

Main Results:

• Simulation hours in ND RN programs surged by 354% over five years, outpacing RN graduation growth (29%).
• The primary driver for increased simulation use was the scarcity of clinical placement sites.
• Key constraints to further simulation expansion include limited faculty, inadequate equipment, and insufficient funding.

Conclusions:

• Increased enrollment in ND RN programs is feasible through enhanced simulation.
• Proper funding, updated equipment, and adequately trained faculty are crucial for expanding simulation programs.
• Simulation offers a viable solution to overcome clinical site limitations in nursing education.