High-Fidelity Patient Simulation to Evaluate Student Nurse Patient Safety Competency

Abstract

BackgroundThere is little evidence supporting the use of simulation to evaluate student nurse safety performance prior to entering the clinical environment. MethodsA High Fidelity Patient Simulation (HFPS) was created and tested that evaluated student nurse patient safety competency. Students were observed and evaluated on their ability to identify or perform six basic safe patient care competencies. A convenience sample (N = 52) of sophomore level students completing their initial semester in the Baccalaureate Nursing program were used to test the patient safety knowledge and skill evaluation. ResultsThe majority of the students complied with the safety competencies of communication and assuring call bell and personal items were within reach. Less than 60% of the students complied with hand hygiene and correct identification of the patient using two identifiers. Only 19% of the students were competent in all six patient safety competencies. ConclusionsHFPS provided a realistic patient care situation to evaluate basic safe patient care competencies. Future evaluation of student’s patient safety competency needs to include an orientation to the environment and clearer understanding of the student’s previous health care experience. Evaluation of the student’s patient safety competency will provide valuable information for faculty and clinical practice facilities.