Exploring the Development of Nursing Clinical Judgment Among Students Using Virtual Reality Simulation

Nurse Educ. 2023 Mar-Apr;48(2):71-75. doi: 10.1097/NNE.0000000000001318. Epub 2022 Nov 4.

Abstract

Background: Virtual reality simulation (VRS) is an emerging pedagogy in nursing education.

Purpose: The purpose of this qualitative exploratory study was 2-fold: to determine nursing students' learning experiences when engaged in VRS, and to explore learners' problem-solving/clinical reasoning approach after participation in a VRS clinical scenario. This article reports student descriptions of clinical reasoning/clinical judgment when considering their VRS experience.

Methods: Qualitative description provided a methodological orientation for the study. Widely accepted frameworks for nursing clinical judgment provided a theoretical basis.

Results: Focus group participant narratives reveal evidence about nursing clinical judgment when applied to established descriptions and phases.

Conclusion: Study findings suggest that VRS experiences promote development of nursing clinical judgment among students.

MeSH terms

  • Clinical Competence
  • Clinical Reasoning
  • Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate*
  • Humans
  • Judgment
  • Nursing Education Research
  • Students, Nursing*
  • Virtual Reality*