Effectiveness of Simulation-Based Training on Clinical Decision-Making Skills Among Nursing Students

Abstract

Background: Simulation-based training (SBT) is increasingly recognized as an effective teaching method for developing clinical decision-making skills (CDMS) in nursing education. Traditional classroom methods often fail to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and clinical application, creating challenges for students in real-life healthcare settings.
Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of simulation-based training on enhancing clinical decision-making skills among final-year nursing students.
Methods: A quasi-experimental pre- and post-test design was conducted involving 60 final-year nursing students from various colleges in Swat, Pakistan. Participants underwent six simulation sessions over two weeks. Clinical decision-making skills were assessed using a validated tool before and after the intervention. Paired sample t-tests and chi-square tests were employed to analyze the data.
Results: The mean post-test score (25.75 ± 3.90) was significantly higher than the pre-test score (18.40 ± 4.25), with a mean difference of 7.35 (p < 0.001), indicating a substantial improvement. No significant associations were found between demographic variables (gender and age) and post-test scores (p > 0.05), suggesting that simulation training is practical across different groups.
Conclusion: Simulation-based training significantly improves clinical decision-making skills among nursing students, even those without simulation experience. It is an inclusive and impactful educational approach that can enhance learning outcomes regardless of demographic background. These findings support integrating simulation-based strategies into nursing curricula to better prepare students for real-world clinical practice.