Implementation of good practices in clinical simulation in nursing education

Abstract

Objective: To identify the needs, advantages, facilitating factors, and barriers for implementation of best practices in clinical simulation (CS) design, proposed by the International Nursing Association of Clinical and Simulation Learning (INACSL). Methods: This was a qualitative case study method based on Rogers’ Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) Theory. Data collection was conducted in a public educational institution, by observations of CS activities and semi-structured interviews, recorded, with 18 people involved in these activities, and submitted to content analysis. Results: Good practices were considered necessary, because they contribute to the systematization of the CS design; they were also considered advantageous, as they can positively impact the quality of care provided by the student to the patient in the clinical training field. The institutional interest in improving CS was a facilitator. However, the lack of methodological knowledge regarding CS strategy, insufficient human resources to use new teaching practices, and the team’s lack of time to include changes in its usual practices were considered barriers to the implementation of good practices. Conclusion: The implementation of good practices in CS design is necessary for the potential benefits of the strategy to be appreciated. Knowledge about the need, advantage, facilitators, and barriers contributes to the design of actions supported by consistent data for the effective implementation of the innovation.