Clinical Simulation and Nursing Student Perceptions of Satisfaction, Self-Confidence, and Critical Thinking

Clinical Simulation and Nursing Student Perceptions of Satisfaction, Self-Confidence, and Critical Thinking by Jaime Lynn Magnetico MA, University of Central Florida, 2009 BS, University of Central Florida, 2005 Doctoral Study Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Education Walden University August 2017 Abstract Although the number of nursing programs has increased in Florida, the number of hospital sites available for clinical experiences have not, resulting in limited clinical time for each nursing program. To address this shortage of clinical time, local colleges are increasing the use of simulations in the curriculum. Guided by andragogy, this sequential mixed methods study was conducted to explore differences in students’ perceptions of satisfaction, self-confidence, and critical thinking between two groups of students with different amounts of clinical simulation. In an associate degree nursing program, 34Although the number of nursing programs has increased in Florida, the number of hospital sites available for clinical experiences have not, resulting in limited clinical time for each nursing program. To address this shortage of clinical time, local colleges are increasing the use of simulations in the curriculum. Guided by andragogy, this sequential mixed methods study was conducted to explore differences in students’ perceptions of satisfaction, self-confidence, and critical thinking between two groups of students with different amounts of clinical simulation. In an associate degree nursing program, 34 nursing students completed a single survey on student perceptions of satisfaction and self-confidence, 12 students completed a critical thinking test, 37 student reflection papers were reviewed, and 4 faculty members were interviewed. Independent t tests were used in analyzing quantitative data, and content analysis was used in the analysis of qualitative data. Statistical analysis and content analysis showed no difference between the groups of students for satisfaction, self-confidence, and critical thinking. However, results should be interpreted with caution because quantitative analyses were underpowered, increasing the risk of type II error. Overall, students had positive comments about simulations in regard to satisfaction, self-confidence, and critical thinking. The results of this study will allow nursing faculty in the local setting to make better decisions with regard to using additional simulation in their programs. The results may benefit nursing students and the patients they care for in their future nursing careers in providing quality healthcare. Clinical Simulation and Nursing Student Perceptions of Satisfaction, Self-Confidence, and Critical Thinking by Jaime Lynn Magnetico MA, University of Central Florida, 2009 BS, University of Central Florida, 2005 Doctoral Study Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Education Walden University August 2017 Acknowledgments First, I would like to thank my committee chair, Dr. Wendy Edson, for guiding me during this process. I would also like to thank Dr. Lopez Avila (second member) and Dr. Catherine Watt (URR). Your time spent on this is very much appreciated; I could not have done it without your help. I would also like to thank my family and friends for being supportive during this whole process. Over the past 4 years, I have spent much time away from you all and in front of a computer. Thank you for putting up with me and pushing me to keep going. I love you all!