Clinicals and simulation: Nursing student success

Clinicals and simulation are learning experiences that prepare students to develop the skills and confidence necessary to provide safe, high-quality patient care. Clinicals involve caring for patients in various healthcare settings under the guidance of an instructor. In contrast, simulations provide students with opportunities to practice clinical skills in a realistic and controlled environment using high-fidelity manikins, online simulations, virtual reality, or standardized patients, who are trained individuals who portray real patients.

Now, there are some real benefits to preparing for clinicals and simulation. It’s common to feel anxious or overwhelmed when approaching these experiences. They can feel intense and make you feel anxious, especially when you’re faced with an unfamiliar environment, complex scenarios, or the pressure to perform well. These feelings can make it more difficult to think critically, use clinical judgment, and absorb new information. So, preparing for clinicals and simulation ahead of time can help you stay calm in intense clinical situations, reduce anxiety, and boost confidence, so you can perform your best. Preparation can even improve your communication and ability to work as a team. It will also strengthen your professional development and promote your success in nursing school.

Okay, to prepare for simulation, start by identifying what simulation methods will be used, such as manikins or virtual reality, and if you’ll be working in small groups or on your own. Next, review the class syllabus to identify the objectives for the simulation. For example, the simulation for the first week of class might be taking vital signs, while the second week might cover heart and lung sounds. Then, review the course content that’s relevant to the situation. For instance, if you’re learning heart sounds, you might review cardiac anatomy and the pathophysiology of heart murmurs. Lastly, if your program offers open lab hours where you can practice simulation on your own, take advantage of these as they allow you the opportunity to get used to the lab environment, supplies, and techniques.

Alright, let’s move on to preparing for your clinicals. To begin, review your school’s information that tells you what attire, equipment, or texts are required. This might include scrubs in your school colors, a stethoscope, and a pocket pharmacology guide. Also be sure to know where your clinical is located, which might be at a local hospital, outpatient care center, or school. Ensure you know what time you’re expected to arrive, how long it will take you to get there, and be sure you have a reliable method of transportation. It’s a good idea to arrive early so you can begin to adapt to the environment.

Once you know your clinical site, familiarize yourself with common patient needs based upon the setting and population, as well as nursing skills that could arise. For example, if you’ll be at a school, review assessment techniques for children and how to check blood glucose; whereas if you’ll be on an inpatient pulmonary unit, review pneumonia and how to administer breathing treatments.