[Development and effects of a simulation-based education program for newborn emergency care].

PURPOSE

This study was conducted to develop a simulation-based education program for newborn emergency care based on most needed topics found from the needs assessment. This study consisted of two phases: developing the program and evaluating its effectiveness.

METHODS

The effectiveness of the program was tested in July, 2012, with 49 junior nursing students from C Nursing College in Seoul, who did not have any clinical experience in newborn care. The experimental group was given a three-hour lecture, three hours of clinical training, and a two-hour simulation program, whereas the control group only had the three-hour lecture.

RESULTS

There was significant improvement in knowledge in both groups, but no significant differences according to educational methods. The experiment group was more confident of their care (4.32±.29) than the control group (3.60±.29) with the difference being significant (t=8.85, p<.001), and the experimental group was also more satisfied with the program (χ²=4.60, p=.032).

CONCLUSION

As the results indicate 'the neonatal emergency care program' increased learners' knowledge, confidence and satisfaction with the program, it should be integrated into clinical training in pediatric nursing curriculum and in-service programs for nurses. To increase generalization further verification studies with various learner groups are needed.