Effect of standardized patient simulation with BCG vaccination on nursing students' skills, knowledge and satisfaction, and self-confidence: A randomized controlled study

Aim

To examine the effect of standardised patient simulation training on nursing students' skills and knowledge in administering the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccine, as well as their satisfaction and self-confidence.

Background

The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccine is administered by nurses to prevent tuberculosis. However, there have been reports of complications arising from inadequate knowledge and skills related to Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccine administration.

Design

A randomised controlled experimental design.

Method

This experimental study was conducted between October 2022 and January 2023 at a university, Medical Training and Simulation Centre. The fourth-year nursing students enrolled in their intern term were asked to participate in this experimental study. Participants were allocated to the intervention group (n=45) and the control group (n=45). The control group received only theoretical training and then BCG application on the model. The socio-demographic survey was conducted to collect demographic data. The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin Vaccine Knowledge Form, Bacillus Calmette-Guérin Vaccine Administration Checklist, and the student satisfaction and self-confidence scale in learning were used. The intervention group received simulation training using a standardized patient. All students' knowledge and skills were measured before and 3 months after the theoretical training.

Results

Simulation training using standardized patients significantly increased nursing students' Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccine knowledge (intervention group=21.57±5.12; control group=15.33±5.61), skills (intervention group=20.88±4.29; control group=10.22±4.56), confidence and satisfaction (intervention group=4.61±0.30; control group=4.17±0.3) compared with the control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Training with standardized patient techniques provides students the opportunity to practice realistically in a safe environment, enabling repetitive practice, which enhances self-confidence and satisfaction.