Virtual Reality Simulation Integration in a Prelicensure Nursing Program: Lessons Learned.

Abstract

Simulation, whether conducted live or through virtual technologies, provides students with experiential learning by replicating realistic clinical experiences that can develop learner competencies in a safe environment. Virtual reality simulation may provide the same level of effective and engaging experiential learning in a fully immersive learning environment without many of the limitations inherent to traditional live simulation environments, such as simulation equipment and designated labs. While there are vendor-provided resources and a new tool kit covering immersive technology simulation implementation in nursing, a lived example to contextualize the implementation process is missing from the literature. This article discusses the selection and implementation of virtual reality simulations in a nursing undergraduate program and lessons learned in the process. Nurse educators seeking such experiences for their students may benefit from the insights shared in this article.