Pilot Testing of Virtual Simulation-Based Experiences in an Oncology Nursing Seminar

Background: The coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic challenged nurse educators to develop teaching strategies to engage students in a virtual classroom. This pilot study examined the effect of virtually delivered video -recorded (VDVR) simulation-based experiences (SBEs) with standardized participants on the management of clinical emergencies in patients and families affected by cancer on nursing student learning outcomes. Method: A pre-and posttest, one-group, convergent mixed-methods design with questionnaire variant was used. Data were collected be-fore and after SBEs. Results: Nineteen senior baccalaureate nursing students participated in this pilot study. The VDVR SBEs resulted in a significant increase in self-perceived com-petence. Participants had positive perceptions about the use of VDVR SBEs as a teaching strategy. Qualitative themes included realism, critical analysis, and preference for hands-on learning. Conclusion:The VDVR SBEs were well-received by prelicensure nursing students as a supplemental teach-ing strategy to enhance self-perceived competence. Addi-tional research is needed about the effects of VDVR SBEs on learning outcomes. [J Nurs Educ. 2023;62(3):167-170.]

Automated summary

This pilot study examined the effect of virtually delivered video-recorded simulation-based experiences (VDVR SBEs) on nursing student learning outcomes in the management of clinical emergencies in cancer patients and families. The results showed a significant increase in self-perceived competence and positive perceptions about the use of VDVR SBEs as a teaching strategy. The study suggests that VDVR SBEs can enhance self-perceived competence and serve as a supplemental teaching strategy.