Effects of teaching using virtual simulations on preparing nursing students before practicing in mental health and psychiatric nursing practice.

Abstract

This Quasi – experimental study aimed . To study the effects of simulation-based learning for preparation of mental health and psychiatric practicum in nursing students. The sample consisted of 95 third-year undergraduate nursing students. Data were collected by using a satisfaction questionnaire and group discussion. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis. The results of the study found that:

1.All nursing students passed the assessment preparation prior to study in mental health and psychiatric practicum.

2.Nursing students had hight satisfaction in participating in the simulation-based learning for preparation of mental health and psychiatric practicum. ((=4.52, S.D.= 0.52)

3.The results of the group discussion found that nursing students were confident and ready to practice in mental health and psychiatric nursing practicum. Their attitudes toward patients with psychiatric disorders were also improved.

Therefore, the simulation-based learning for preparation of mental health and psychiatric practicum can be used to develop students’confidence in real-life practice.