Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Simulation Modalities in First Year Nursing Students

Background

This study explored differences in knowledge, skill, and confidence, of first-year baccalaureate nursing students (N=104) who completed either a low-fidelity simulation (control group, n=46) or a web-based virtual reality (WebVR) simulation (experimental group, n=56) related to the nursing concept of airway management.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial, mixed methods, pre-test post-test design was used in this study.

Results

Both groups had an increase in mean scores, on both outcome measures. Participants in the control group had significantly greater differences (p<.05) on the knowledge and skills survey and the confidence survey compared to the experimental group. Qualitative findings revealed students from both groups perceived gains in improving assessment and communication skills, and future practice would be impacted by better prioritization abilities. While students perceived the WebVR to be useful, they did not feel it was easy to use which resulted in feeling stressed.

Conclusion

Low-fidelity simulation might be more beneficial than WebVR simulations with first-year nursing students.