Effectiveness of Simulation-Based Orientation of Baccalaureate Nursing Students Preparing for Their First Clinical Experience

Abstract

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a 2-day, simulation-based orientation for baccalaureate nursing students preparing to begin their first clinical experience. Students were recruited for participation in the study from a clinical foundation course. Actors (standardized patients) provided students with the chance to engage with simulated real patients in realistic clinical situations prior to entering the clinical setting. Students' perceived stress, knowledge acquisition, anxiety, self-confidence, and satisfaction with the orientation process were assessed. Findings indicated a statistically significant increase in knowledge of and confidence in skills needed when first entering the clinical setting and a decrease in anxiety following the orientation activity. Students had a positive attitude about interaction with real patients, faculty, and other students during the experience. Improved self-confidence and satisfaction were reported as a result of participation in simulation-based orientation.

Students’ evaluation of a computerized patient simulator in nursing education and its effect on the results of preclinical tests

“…Dearmon, Graves, Hayden, Mulekar, Lawrence, Jones, Smith and Farmer [39] support this finding, having concluded in their study that simulation-based orientation was very useful in preparing nursing students for practice.…”

Utilization of Standardized Patients to Decrease Nursing Student Anxiety

“…As reported by Dearmon et al (2013), high levels of anxiety can negatively impact student performance leading to the inability to perform and ultimately jeopardizing patient safety. If students feel less anxious, they may be more likely to establish an enhanced therapeutic relationship with the patient thus achieving the goals of improving patient outcomes and compliance with treatment.…”

Evaluation of pregnant examination simulation with mini-CEX in nursing education: an experience of Turkey

“…Further, it was reported that simulations improved the confidence of nursing students during training for the discharge of postpartum mothers (Wagner et al, 2009). Reilly & Spratt (2007) and Dearmon et al (2013) identified that simulation-based initiatives increase in students' clinical competence and decrease their stress. Chiang & Chan (2014) reported that simulation provide positive learning environment.…”