The Effects Pediatric Simulation have on the Confidence and Physiological Processes of Accelerated BSN Students

Abstract

Introduction: Simulation allows nursing students the opportunity to experience clinical scenarios in a controlled setting where mistakes do not harm a real-life patient. Confidence is crucial for nurses as it helps them provide competent care, fostering a sense of trust. Therefore, it is important to measure how effectively simulations build confidence in nursing students. Simulations may be designed to expose students to stressful clinical scenarios and equip them for difficult situations in their nursing careers. However, stress levels during simulation should not reach levels that disrupt learning and prevent confidence building. This study aims to evaluate the confidence and physiological changes simulation has on East Carolina University Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing students (ECU ABSN). Method: Quantitative and qualitative data were gathered during a 2-hour pediatric simulation. The sample contained 21 ECU ABSN students. The study assessed the student’s physiological indications of stress such as heart rate and oxygen saturation using a pulse oximeter probe provided by the ECU College of Nursing. Time points for assessment were pre-lecture, pre- and post-simulation, and at the conclusion of the activity. Changes in confidence related to the simulation were evaluated using a pretest and posttest question survey. Results: At baseline, the student's average heart rate was 83.19. Immediately, prior to beginning the simulation, there was an increase in heart rate to 87.05. Following the completion of the simulation, there was an increase in the heart rate to 94.19. During the debriefing period, there was a decrease in heart rate to 89.19. At baseline, the student's average pulse oxygenation saturation was 99.14. Directly before the simulation began, their average pulse oxygenation saturation decreased to 98.71. Immediately after the completion of the simulation, there was a slight increase to 98.76. During the debriefing period, the average pulse oxygenation saturation decreased to 98.62. Sixteen (n=16) students had an increase in confidence and 5 (n=5) students had a decrease in confidence after completing the simulation. Conclusion: Confidence is important within the field of nursing, but further research is needed to determine whether students’ confidence is enhanced by simulation. Understanding how simulation influenced these ABSN students will allow further development and revision to ensure future students get the full benefits from pediatric simulation.