High-Fidelity Simulation in Undergraduate Nursing Education: A Review of Simulation Reviews

An overview of existing high-fidelity simulation reviews in undergraduate nursing education suggests a need for methodologically sound research that translates simulation outcomes to future performance and practice and supports the multitude of challenges in simulation research.

Abstract

The purpose of this focused review was to provide an overview of existing highfidelity simulation reviews in undergraduate nursing education. Over the last 10 years, there has been a substantial increase in the use of high-fidelity simulation in undergraduate nursing education. Six reviewers conducted a systematic literature search on existing reviews of high-fidelity simulation and undergraduate nursing education from January 1, 2009, through June 30, 2015. Using a comprehensive search of literature databases and hand searches, a total of 34 reviews were initially selected for full review with seven reviews included in the final analysis after rereview of the inclusion/exclusion criteria. Findings from simulation research and reviews revealed significant differences in design and assessment methods leading to a wide variety of measurement outcomes and a variety of limitations. Of the seven reviews, five were integrative reviews and two were reviews of the literature. No meta-analysis or systematic reviews met the inclusion criteria. The review suggests a need for methodologically sound research that translates simulation outcomes to future performance and practice. Findings from the review support the multitude of challenges in simulation research including a lack of funding, a lack of simulation training for faculty and staff, and a lack of support for faculty conducting simulation research. Limitations of prior studies include weak designs, mixed samples, and a lack of valid and reliable evaluation tools.