The evidence-based benefits of a dedicated simulation lab coordinator for a rural nursing program

Abstract

Problem/Purpose: The pandemic created extreme challenges for the healthcare workforce and impacted the availability of clinical placement sites for students. Student nurses accustomed to direct patient care experiences at a hospital or clinic site were barred from these settings and redirected to learn skills exclusively in simulation labs and online environments. Initially unprepared to educate and account for all required clinical hours for multiple cohorts of students, faculty were forced to take stock of their resources, keep students safe, and prepare for the unpredictable and lengthy COVID-19 event. This project aimed to establish the evidence-based benefits of a dedicated sim lab coordinator/educator and describe the role and expectations of a dedicated sim lab coordinator for a rural-based nursing program. Procedure: A microsystem assessment of the Community College Nursing Program (CCNP) and a review of pertinent literature identified the value of a dynamic, well-managed, and expertly staffed clinical simulation lab as a possible solution. Results: This project addressed the need for simulation preparation training and implementation among faculty by utilizing the education outlined in the simulation handbook. This education provides a foundation for simulation implementation for faculty. In addition, the implementation of simulation with the National League for Nursing (NLN) simulation template is utilized by all faculty to provide consistent simulation methods for students at the CCNP. By using a standardized template and having faculty educated in the development and implementation of simulation, the nursing students will gain clarity regarding what to expect and how to prepare for the simulation. Ongoing assessments of the simulation program are conducted using faculty and student evaluations, thus allowing the CCNP to facilitate changes and improvements as deemed necessary. Conclusions: Expected outcomes include consistency in simulation education and implementation. A well-prepared simulation coordinator manages the lab, educates faculty and students, and creates an environment where academic and clinical learning confidence is nurtured. A coordinator guided by evidence-based best practices provides controlled, managed, and consistent clinical learning experiences for students and fosters readiness for practice as registered nurses.