Effects of simulation on nursing students' Knowledge, clinical reasoning, and self-confidence: A quasi-experimental study

Purpose: Knowledge, clinical reasoning, and self-confidence are the basis for undergraduate education, and determine students' level of competence. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of the addition of a one-time simulation experience to the didactic curriculum on nursing students' knowledge acquisition, clinical reasoning skill, and self-confidence. Methods: Using a quasi-experimental crossover design consisted of intervention and wait-list control groups. Participants were non-randomly assigned to the first intervention group (Group A, n=48) or the wait-list control group (Group B, n=46). Knowledge level was assessed through a multiple choice written test, and clinical reasoning skill was measured using a nursing process model-based rubric. Self-confidence was measured using a self-reported questionnaire. Results: Results indicated that students in the simulation group scored significantly higher on clinical reasoning skill and related knowledge than those in the didactic lecture group; no difference was found for self-confidence. Conclusion: Findings suggest that undergraduate nursing education requires a simulation-based curriculum for clinical reasoning development and knowledge acquisition.