Use of simulation among nursing students in learning the management of common pediatric conditions

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is aimed to assess the impact of simulation in addition to conventional training on knowledge and self-efficacy of the nursing students in handling common pediatric conditions covered under integrated management of neonatal and childhood illnesses. Methods: In a pretest–posttest control group design, 61 nursing students were randomly assigned to an experimental and control groups. The intervention for the control group consisted of 30 h conventional teaching on the management of common pediatric conditions, while the experimental group received additional simulation training of 5 h duration along with conventional teaching. Results: Both experimental (n = 30) and control groups (n = 30) were similar in demographic characteristics and baseline academic qualifications. There was a significant increase in knowledge and self-efficacy scores in both the groups (P < 0.001) with postintervention scores being significantly higher for knowledge (17.8 [2.1] vs. 15.5 [1.9], P < 0.001) and self-efficacy (34.4 [2.5] vs. 32.3 [2.9], P = 0.004) in the experimental group. Conclusion: An add-on simulation-based training to conventional teaching led to better knowledge and self-efficacy level in handling common pediatric conditions.

Keywords

• common pediatric illnesses
• integrated management of neonatal and childhood illnesses
• simulation