(50) Prediction on Increased Competency for Novice Nursing Students Entering Specialty Clinicals Through the Integration of Simulation

Abstract: Prediction on Increased Competency for Novice Nursing Students Entering Specialty Clinicals Through the Integration of Simulation

Introduction: Orientation to Perinatal nursing for novice student nurses has been a challenge due to the nature of the content and specialty. This program was created to advance the orientation process for these students for the purpose of decreasing anxiety related to the clinical experience, and therefore increasing absorption of skills and content.

Methods: Using a group approach, 67 Novice Junior level Baccalaureate nursing students participated in an orientation to OB with emphasis placed on students using hands on assessing and application of content after instruction and demonstration, followed by a fun filled “Fundal Games” for application of all skills through a simulation-based scenario. Pre/post survey data was collected regarding the anxiety of students and level of knowledge on OB content. Descriptive and T-test analysis was performed.

Results: Anxiety levels decreased from 59.7% to 32.57%. Knowledge/comfort with content increased from 17.6% TO 97.9%.

Conclusion: These results indicate that by implementing a combination approach of classroom and hands on practicing of skills followed by a simulated scenario for application, students reported feeling better suited to practice skills in the clinical site and therefore decreased potential for negative patient experience and adverse events related to receiving care from students with high anxiety.