The Use of Simulated Practice Learning

Within Pre-Registration Nursing Programmes at the

University of Ulster

Brian McFetridgeLecturer in NursingSchool of Nursing University of Ulster

What is Simulation?• Simulation has been defined by Quinn (2000) as

‘an imitation of some facet of life, usually in a simplified form. (p382)’

• Issenberg et al (1999) described simulations in terms of providing trainees with life-like situations requiring them to use appropriate questions, actions and also receive appropriate feedback.

• Formative approach to student development

Current Simulation Activities

• Role play

• Acting clinical scenarios

• Use of Clinical Skills Laboratories

• CCTV recording, playback and review

• Disaster / Emergency preparedness and response

Why Disaster Preparedness and Response?

• Experience of MSc Disaster Relief Nursing and associated simulation activities

• All nurses have a potential role within the response to a disaster or major incident

• Learning is not limited to disaster related knowledge and skills but to– Leadership and Management Skills– Teamwork– Interprofessional working and communication– Adaptation, innovation, problem solving

Teamwork

Coordinate, delegate, supervise and participate in the work of a nursing team

Interpersonal Skills

Demonstrate professional behaviour in interactions with patients/relatives, professional colleagues, members of the multidisciplinary team, managers, the general public

Demonstrate

problem-solving

skills in managing

care to meet

identified patient

needs

Innovation, Adaptation and Application

Working with others

Work as a member of a team including negotiation, leadership and active listening in the context of consulting with other professionals and patients;

Personal Development

Reflect on their experiences and identify their own strengths and weaknesses

Transferable Skills

• Leadership

• Decision making

• Collaboration

• Cultural diversity

• Students are prepared for the necessary skills through earlier theory, placement and casualty acting roles

• Promotes School working with other service providers - Trusts, Emergency Services, Territorial Army

• Formative assessment

• Reflection

Final Thoughts