Using interactive video to add physical assessment data to computer-based patient simulations in nursing

The use of computer-based simulations can enhance problem-based learning in nursing education. Adding interactive video allows students to "see" the patient they are interviewing and to "examine" the patient rather than having the examination findings described by the software developer. These features both increase the realism of the simulations and challenge the learner to interpret the physical examination findings. The use of interactive videotape has proved to be a medium that lends itself to in-house production of interactive video.