- Michelle Van Der Wege: Department of Nursing, Fort Hays State University, Hays, KS, United States.
- Shauna Keil: Department of Nursing, Fort Hays State University, Hays, KS, United States.
BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for quality nurses and nursing education. Virtual simulation emerged as a key component of providing clinical experiences to nursing students.
PROBLEM: Commercial virtual simulation products can be costly, and it is difficult to ensure the content meets student needs. In addition, there is a potential for cheating as answers are available online.
METHODS: Faculty recorded 16 different scenarios in pre-determined segments, including patient report, assessment, provider communication, and conclusion. During the clinical experience, the students watched the videos and participated in faculty-led discussion. At the conclusion of the activity, students completed a reflection assignment providing qualitative data for review.
RESULTS: Student feedback was positive. Themes identified in the comments include critical thinking, variety of scenarios, observer role, debriefing, and overall quality of experience.
CONCLUSIONS: Homemade virtual clinical has the potential to be a low-cost, high-impact method for virtual simulation across nursing curricula. Further research is needed.