Lessons Learned: Raising Awareness of Civility and Incivility Using Semi-Virtual Reality Simulation

J Nurs Educ. 2020 Aug 1;59(8):461-464. doi: 10.3928/01484834-20200723-08.

Abstract

Background: The purpose of our web-based, semi-virtual reality simulation was to raise baccalaureate nursing students' awareness of civility and incivility. Educators know civility in nursing is crucial to safe and effective patient care. However, nursing students have reported physiological and psychological distress after experiencing incivility. If nurse educators are unable to better promote civility, the quality of nursing education, and ultimately nursing practice, is threatened.

Method: We implemented an innovative civility-related, semi-virtual reality, simulation with senior-level nursing students. After attending a faculty-led discussion on the importance of civility and incivility, students participated in a web-based, semi-virtual reality simulation, followed by a synchronous debriefing session.

Results: Students reported that the intervention raised their awareness of civility and incivility.

Conclusion: This article describes the intervention and shares the lessons learned in implementing it so nurse educators may replicate this innovative strategy to raise awareness of civility in nursing education. [J Nurs Educ. 2020;59(8):461-464.].

MeSH terms

  • Education, Nursing* / methods
  • Faculty, Nursing
  • Humans
  • Incivility* / prevention & control
  • Simulation Training*
  • Students, Nursing
  • Virtual Reality*