Overcoming Resistance: Implementation of 100% Simulation for First Semester Nursing Students

Abstract

Clinical learning in the first semester of nursing school is often challenging and difficult for students to assimilate multiple subjects while applying clinical skills. One college of nursing created a first semester simulation experience that helped students to enhance clinical reasoning by aligning content in multiple courses, allowing for application of information, and linked clinical skills learned each week to the concept of total patient care. The resulting change to course structure combined basic physical assessment and fundamental nursing care to one course allowing students to understand the application of assessment to nursing practice and skill.