Methods: One open-ended question explored how the CF simulation scenario enhanced their overall ability to integrate genomics, which was part of a larger quantitative analysis study of students’ genomic knowledge that utilized a pre/post assessment of their simulation experience. Thematic interpretation of commonalities emerged with theme clustering according to conceptual similarities. Data was managed in an objective and systematic approach leading to the construction of correlating suppositions. Initially, several clusters were identified, and these were eventually collapsed into the four expounding themes, each with three separate sub-themes.
Results: Twenty-four pre-licensure third year [junior level] nursing students shared their perspective of CF and nursing. Four super-ordinate themes emerged pertaining to genomic integration into simulation: genomics and nursing; patient education; teamwork exercise and patient-nurse relationship. Each major theme had three sub-themes identified, ranging from experience, confidence, applying patient-centered care and education, teaching and communication to group interaction, advocacy and empathy.
All the participants expressed how integration of genomics into a simulation was beneficial to their overall learning enhancement while improving their nursing skills, gaining confidence and learned how to confidentially speak about genomics in the nursing field. Participants expressed the importance of patient education which facilitates patient outcomes. Simulation provides opportunities for students to learn collaborative patient care teamwork while enhancing their communicative skills as professionals. Finally, simulation experiences can instill the concept of advocacy for their patients by obtaining the resources and needed information for the patient and their family.
Conclusions: An effective and innovative teaching strategy is the integration of a simulated hospitalized patient with Cystic Fibrosis requiring patient care and genetic education, immersing pre-licensure baccalaureate undergraduate students in a realistic clinical situation, promoting critical thinking and patient education while augmenting students perceived genomic knowledge. Adapting simulation scenarios to meet student educational outcomes requires nurse educators to be creative and innovative in their approach to the inclusion of required competencies, while ensuring optimal health outcomes.