Enhancing maternal/child content with augmented reality during simulation-based education: A study with prelicensure nursing students

Abstract

Background: Obstetric (OB) education faces challenges due to limited clinical placements and observation-only opportunities. Simulation-based experiences (SBE) can help bridge these gaps, providing realistic scenarios to enhance nursing students' understanding. Although Augmented Reality (AR) holds promise in nursing education, limited research evaluates its impact on OB content. Aim: To evaluate completion time, post-simulation knowledge, perceived effectiveness, and side effects. Methods: A post-test-only descriptive design was used with 119 prelicensure nursing students in a maternal/child course. Participants completed AR simulation scenarios of normal delivery and postpartum hemorrhage. Data collection included a researcher developed Knowledge Test, the simulation effectiveness tool-modified (SET-M) effectiveness tool-modifieas used with 11reality sickness questionnaire (VRSQ), and open-ended questions. Results: Most students (94%) found the AR simulation beneficial prior to clinicals. The average post-simulation knowledge score was 7.95/10. SET-M results indicated an effective learning experience. VRSQ scores revealed mild oculomotor symptoms. No data could be analyzed for completion time or open-ended responses. Conclusions: AR-enhanced Simulation-based experiences (SBE) is a valuable tool in OB education and may help address knowledge gaps. Further research is needed to explore its broader educational impact.