Evaluating clinical simulation

Problem: This article reviews the findings of a year-long process of evaluation by faculty involved in clinical simulation. The process involved only one faculty reviewer, and the findings demonstrated various deficiencies present in students' performance of selected clinical scenarios.

Methods: A simulation rubric and set clinical scenarios were developed in order to evaluate students' performance. The student's performance was graded and was made part of the senior student's final clinical course grade. The students were required to conduct a clinical simulation activity, as if they were the nurse caring for the patient. They performed a complete assessment, basic interventions, and interdisciplinary communication, along with computerized documentation.

Findings: The findings showed deficits in the areas of medication administration, patient assessment, and communication.

Conclusion: As a result, the faculty has looked at ways to improve these areas and to more fully incorporate simulation activities into the nursing curriculum.