Development and evaluation of a collaborative reflection-based debriefing strategy for simulation-based education using virtual simulations in practical nursing: A randomized controlled trial.

AIM

To develop and validate a debriefing strategy for simulation-based education in practical nursing that fosters collaborative reflection and enhances nursing competencies. The study assesses the effects on knowledge, problem-solving skills, self-confidence in clinical decision-making, reflective thinking and student satisfaction.

BACKGROUND

Advancements in medical technology and the evolving healthcare landscape have increased nurses' expectations, prompting nursing education to emphasize practical skills in addition to theoretical knowledge. The shortage of clinical practice wards, increased nursing school enrollments and a focus on patient rights have expanded traditional simulation-based education to include virtual clinical scenarios.

METHOD

A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 66 fourth-year nursing students (34 in the experimental group and 32 in the control group) at Dongseo University, Pusan, Republic of Korea (IRB No. 2021-023-HR-02). The collaborative reflection-based debriefing comprised four phases: pre-debriefing, emotional relief, exploration of alternatives and expansion of thinking. The experimental group had three intervention sessions; the control group underwent individual debriefing after completing a structured reflective questionnaire. Outcomes were assessed post-intervention and at four and eight weeks. Data were analyzed using independent t-tests and repeated-measures analysis of variance (mixed model).

RESULTS

The experimental group exhibited significantly greater improvements in knowledge, problem-solving skills, self-confidence in clinical decision-making, reflective thinking and satisfaction than the control group.

CONCLUSION

Collaborative reflection-based debriefing in simulation-based education can improve the nursing competency required in clinical settings.