title: The impact of a simulation lab experiencefor nursing students.
abstract: A simulation clinical learning experience was initiated by a diploma school of nursing at a multidisciplinary training and research facility for simulation-based education. The simulation focused on pediatric and obstetrical scenarios. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact simulation laboratory experiences have on critical thinking, student satisfaction, self-confidence, and cognitive learning. With 63 students participating over four semesters, a positive response was found for satisfaction and self-confidence in learning; there was also a significant increase in cognitive knowledge. No definitive conclusion regarding critical thinking was established, but a discovery was made regarding the importance of process during the simulation.
authors.affiliation: St. Margaret School of Nursing, UPMC St. Margaret, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA. lewisdy@upmc.edu
authors.forename: Deborah Y
authors.initials: DY
authors.lastname: Lewis
authors.forename: Ann D
authors.initials: AD
authors.lastname: Ciak
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D004510:Education, Nursing, Diploma Programs / Q000379:methods*; D004521:Educational Measurement; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008348:Manikins; D009773:Obstetric Nursing / Q000193:education*; D010371:Pediatric Nursing / Q000193:education*; D011247:Pregnancy; D015397:Program Evaluation; D020377:Self Efficacy