Use of High Fidelity Simulation in Early Nursing Courses

Vol. 1 No. 2

Year: 2011

Issue: May-Jul

Title: Use of High Fidelity Simulation in Early Nursing Courses 

Author Name: 

Synopsis: 

Simulation is increasingly being used in nursing education, especially in upper level courses. A faculty member teaching a wellness course at the sophomore level was interested in integrating simulation into this level of the curriculum but found pre-packaged scenarios too complex, quick paced, and advanced for younger students. As a result, two scenarios were created using a high fidelity simulation manikin which incorporated content from health assessment, wellness, and nutrition coursework. Learning objectives focused on subjective and objective assessment skills, therapeutic relationships, safety and quality issues, SBAR (situation-background-assessment-recommendation) communication and primary and secondary nursing interventions to improve and promote health. Unlike the acute care settings where most upper level course scenarios occur, the setting for these scenarios was senior centers and adult day centers. Manikins were assembled to appear as well elderly, interacting with others in community settings. This experience allowed less experienced nursing students to engage in critical thinking and utilize new skills through use of technology. Experiences were well received by students and faculty alike, who had no previous interaction with simulation. Starting with slower, low-acuity scenarios can serve to increase the confidence of using simulation for both students and educators as well as prepare students for higher acuity encounters.