Competency by Simulation: Expert Nurse Perceptions

Registered nurses practice in an environment that involves complex healthcare issues requiring continuous learning and evaluation of cognitive and technical skills to ensure safe and quality patient care.  The purpose of this basic qualitative study was to gain a better understanding of the continuing educational needs of the expert nurse.  This study focused on the use of simulation as a learning platform in the continuation of competency.  The study was based on the theories of adult learning and novice to expert.  A sample of 10 expert nurses were interviewed regarding their experiences in the use of simulation during continuing education endeavors.  The finding indicated that the use of simulation in this study population was effective in the maintenance of competency or in the delivery of new information.  The study finding also offered developmental ideas for nurse educators in the planning and delivery of simulation to this study population.