Impact of high-fidelity and virtual simulation experiences on nurses’ acquired knowledge and skills for triaging suspected COVID-19 patients

Abstract

Purpose

This study compares the impact of high-fidelity simulation (HFS) and virtual simulation (VS) experiences on nurses for triaging suspected COVID-19 patients on the basis of their knowledge and skill acquisition.

Background

The essential tools for nurses' professional growth and development are not limited to participation in seminars or symposiums. Training, such as simulation, is also a crucial practice for improving nurses’ competency, especially during a pandemic.

Methods

This study employs a comparative research design. The nurses’ acquired knowledge and skills are evaluated by dividing them into Groups A and B, which are exposed to HFS and VS, respectively.

Results

The mean scores obtained by both groups in their post-tests are significantly higher than that obtained in their pre-tests, by an average of −18.38 for Group A and 22.14 for Group B. The mean scores obtained in their post-Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is significantly higher than that in their pre-OSCE, by an average of −23.00 for Group A and 20.67 for Group B. Moreover, Group B's mean score in the post-test is significantly higher than Group A's by an average of −3.00. Group A's post-OSCE mean score is significantly higher than Group B's by an average of 2.92.

Conclusions

The professional competence of nurses exposed to HFS and VS improves significantly. Nurses exposed to VS acquire more knowledge, whereas nurses exposed to HFS develop higher-level skills.