Implications of Simulation and Real-Life Learning for Novice Emergency Nurses in COVID-19

Abstract

Abstract 
 In recent decades, technological influences have propelled the advancement of nursing education, both in practical and theoretical andragogy. Simulation technology has become an integral component of many nursing programs and clinical practice settings. The introduction of simulation challenges current mentorship and practice-based real-life learning, alluding to the question: Is the use of simulation to educate nurses within the clinical environment a sufficient replacement for real-life learning? The recent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 disease (SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19) pandemic has caused emergency departments (EDs) to re-examine educational practices, potentially replacing real-life learning with simulation technology to support novice nurses as they care for acutely ill COVID-19 patients. Many experienced ED nurses have left the profession during the COVID-19 pandemic, and novice ED nurses with minimal ED experience have been hired in their places. While their enthusiasm, skill, and knowledge are highly valued, novice ED nurses face many challenges in the complex ED environment, particularly in the rapidly changing COVID-19 pandemic. This article provides an overview of simulation learning and real-life learning and how both of these models, along with their educational strategies, may be implemented by ED nurse educators in assisting novice ED nurses transitioning to independent practice.
 Keywords: simulation, real-life learning, novice nurse education, emergency department, COVID-19