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Learning Objective 1: Describe statewide resources available at schools of nursing and hospitals to support simulation as an educational modality.
Learning Objective 2: Identify resources needed by schools of nursing and hospitals to support effective use of simulation.
Simulation use in nursing is increasing. Identification of simulation resources and implementation needs will assist in maximizing effective use. The purpose of this study was to identify statewide simulation resources available at schools of nursing and hospitals, how simulation is used, and resources needed to support simulation.
Methods:
The study was conducted using a descriptive design. Data were collected via a web-based survey developed from review of simulation literature and input from simulation experts. The survey link was sent to nursing program directors (n=179) and chief nursing officers (n=206) in the state of Florida. Responses were received from 210 sites (54.5%); schools had a higher response rate (73.7%) than hospitals (37.9%).
Results:
Eighty percent (80%) of respondents owned low-fidelity equipment and task trainers, and 55% owned medium to high-fidelity simulators. Schools owned more equipment than hospitals. Only 26.3% of sites had a simulation coordinator, and 13.5% had technical support personnel. Most personnel had vendor-sponsored training. Space for simulation varied, with schools twice as likely as hospitals to have a dedicated laboratory. Most hospitals transported simulation equipment throughout the facility. Simulation was used most often to teach technical skills and develop critical thinking in medical-surgical (79.4%) and maternal-newborn (63.9%) specialties. Hospitals used simulation more often for orientation, refresher courses, and team training. Most sites wrote their own scenarios (66.0%) or used pre-packaged scenarios (58.3%). Formal debriefing was reported by 67.3%. Challenges identified with simulation included inadequate: finances (51.5%), knowledge (48.0%), time (42.7%), equipment (39.8%), and technical support (39.2%).
Conclusion:
Simulation resources varied widely across the state, with schools having more resources than hospitals. Equipment, personnel, space, and training resources are needed. Opportunities exist for expanding use of simulation, and partnerships to maximize its use throughout the state are desired. Findings will assist others who are developing simulation programs.
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