The pilot application of escape rooms as a method to evaluate basic nursing skills: a qualitative study of student experiences

Abstract

Background: Escape rooms have become increasingly popular in recent years as teaching tools. However, traditional Chinese education still relies heavily on teacher-led instruction, and there is limited research on the application of escape room-style teaching methods in nursing education. This study initially applied the escape room method to evaluate basic nursing skills and aimed to explore the experiences of undergraduate nursing students participating in escape room-style assessments for basic nursing skills using qualitative interviews. Methods: In this study, a descriptive phenomenological research method was employed to conduct in-depth interviews with 12 undergraduate nursing students who participated in a basic nursing skills assessment using an escape room scenario. Interview data were organized and analysed using the Colaizzi’s seven-step analysis method. Results: Data analysis revealed two overarching themes and five corresponding sub-themes. The primary themes included learning experience and learning feedback, while the sub-themes encompassed a relaxed environment, motivation enhancement, team collaboration fostering a learning community, integration of theory and practice, cultivation of critical thinking skills, improvement of assessment design plans, as well as inclusion of teacher evaluation and review sessions. Conclusions: Escape room teaching has received positive evaluations. It combines relaxation, fun and interactivity, and supports teaching goals such as improving students’ initiative, teamwork and critical thinking. Future improvements to escape room training can enhance its role in consolidating knowledge and improving nursing skills.