The effectiveness of simulation-based learning (SBL) on students’ knowledge and skills in nursing programs: a systematic review

Abstract

Background

Simulation-Based Learning (SBL) serves as a valuable pedagogical approach in nursing education, encompassing varying levels of fidelity. While previous reviews have highlighted the potential effectiveness of SBL in enhancing nursing students’ competencies, a gap persists in the evidence-base addressing the long-term retention of these competencies. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the impact of SBL on nursing students’ knowledge and skill acquisition and retention.

Method

A comprehensive search of electronic databases, including CINAHL, PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Eric, was conducted from 2017 to 2023 to identify relevant studies. The Joanna Briggs critical appraisal tools were used to assess the methodological quality of the included studies. A total of 33 studies (15 RCTs and 18 quasi-experimental) met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. A descriptive narrative synthesis method was used to extract relevant data.

Results

The cumulative sample size of participants across the included studies was 3,670. Most of the studies focused on the impact of SBL on life-saving skills like cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or other life-support skills. The remaining studies examined the impact of SBL on critical care skills or clinical decision-making skills. The analysis highlighted consistent and significant improvements in knowledge and skills. However, the evidence base had several limitations, including the heterogeneity of study designs, risk of bias, and lack of long-term follow-up.

Conclusion

This systematic review supports the use of SBL as a potent teaching strategy within nursing education and highlights the importance of the ongoing evaluation and refinement of this approach. While current evidence indicates enhancing knowledge and skill acquisition, limited studies evaluated the retention beyond five months, constraining generalisable claims regarding durability. Further research is essential to build on the current evidence and address gaps in knowledge related to the retention, optimal design, implementation, and evaluation of SBL interventions in nursing education.