The impact of simulation on the perception of clinical self efficacy in first semester associate degree nursing students

Introduction: The current climate in nursing education favors simulation-based learning experiences over traditional forms of pedagogy for their perceived benefits in improving students' competencies and skills. This quality improvement project explored the impact of simulation-based learning experiences for first-semester nursing students on their self-efficacy and self-confidence to perform in bedside roles in their first clinical rotation. This project focuses on first-semester associate degree nursing students. Aim: The purpose of this project was to determine if it is beneficial for ADN students to participate in simulation activities before the first clinical rotation, as opposed to experiencing simulation later in their studies, as is traditional in this university. Method: The participants attended three simulation sessions and were evaluated on their satisfaction with the program, its usefulness for their practice, and self-efficacy before and after participating in their first clinical practice experience. Results: The findings of this quasi-experimental project indicate improved satisfaction with each simulation session and overall acceptance and recommendations for retention in the curriculum. The students' self-efficacy and self-confidence levels increased significantly after the clinical practice (t (20) = 2.63, p = 0.016). Conclusion: Introducing simulation for first-semester associate degree nursing students has benefits and improves learner preparedness for bedside roles. (C) 2021 Organization for Associate Degree Nursing. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.