Integrate high-fidelity simulation into continuing nursing education and professional development programs¶

Strategy · All strategies
Evidence · 6 claims (4 for, 2 mixed) · 3 studies (2 quant-synthesis, 1 review), q3–q4 · 2 of 3 report an effect size · 6 claims rest on one study

Description¶

The review concludes that HFS training can be used in ongoing training for practising registered nurses, noting it "adds to the literature by showing that HFS training can be utilised in continuing education and professional development for practising registered nurses". HFS uses computer-controlled full-size manikins mimicking realistic clinical scenarios in a safe setting, suited to refreshing skills in high-stakes, infrequent situations. The evidence base is small, so adoption should be accompanied by evaluation.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• Programs should target practising registered nurses, with scenarios appropriate to critical or emergency care as in the included studies.

Constraints¶

• HFS is resource-intensive; the review notes potential underutilisation due to "resource constraints, lack of institutional support and the challenges of integrating simulation into busy work schedules".

Target Learners¶

• Practising registered nurses, especially in emergency departments and intensive care units

Target Learning Goals¶

• Knowledge acquisition
• Professional/clinical skills
• Learning satisfaction

Claims¶

• High-fidelity simulation training improves knowledge acquisition among practising registered nurses (moderate pooled effect) [+W]
• High-fidelity simulation training yields a large effect on learning satisfaction among practising registered nurses [+W]
• High-fidelity simulation training improves professional skills among practising registered nurses (moderate pooled effect) [+W]
• The effect of high-fidelity simulation on practising nurses' self-confidence is inconclusive, varying by study design [~W]
• Simulation Based Education Improves Outcomes [+M]
• In an RCT of ICU nurses, simulation-based education produced within-group gains in knowledge, confidence and competence but no between-group differences at 6 weeks [~W]

Related Strategies¶

• Future HFS trials for practising nurses need larger samples, rigorous randomised design and standardised, fully reported measures
• Integrate interactive, competency-based diabetic foot care training into continuing professional development, supported by organizational resources
• Integrate high-fidelity body donor models with low-fidelity simulators across the training progression

Examples¶

-

Key Sources¶

• Zhou Jie, Zhang Guowen, Song Peige, Liaw Sok Ying, Luk Tzu Tsun. (2026). Effects of High‐Fidelity Simulation Training on Learning Outcomes and Satisfaction for Practising Registered Nurses: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis. Journal of Clinical Nursing. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocn.70206