Challenges, opportunities, and organisational readiness for simulation-based education in pre-registration nursing: A national survey across the United Kingdom.

BACKGROUND

Simulation-based education (SBE) fosters the development of competencies and expands clinical placement capacity. However, the underutilisation of simulation-based education is often attributed to a lack of organisational readiness.

AIM: To understand organisational readiness for SBE and factors affecting its integration and use in pre-registration nurse education in the UK.

METHODS

A self-report cross-sectional survey was conducted among universities that are members of the Council of Deans of Health (CoDH) and offer pre-registration nursing courses in the UK. Quantitative data were analysed for staff confidence, usage, and organisational readiness for SBE using the Simulation Culture Organisational Readiness Survey (SCORS), while qualitative data explored challenges and benefits of SBE in nurse education. Data were collected between December 2022 and February 2023.

RESULTS

Sixty universities completed the survey, resulting in a 69 % response rate. The study found high confidence and usage levels for low-fidelity simulations, while highfidelity, virtual reality, and augmented reality simulations showed lower confidence and utilisation. SCORS scores indicated moderate organisational readiness for SBE in the UK, with 48 % of organisations being highly ready. Significant positive correlations were found between confidence, SCORS scores, and simulation modality usage. Challenges included inadequate resources, staff proficiency, digital skills, and leadership support. The benefits highlighted SBE's role in enhancing clinical skills, interprofessional education, and building capacity for clinical education.

CONCLUSION

Focusing on staff development, particularly in digital and simulation skills, is essential to optimise facilitators' readiness for SBE. Organisational readiness also requires further development in areas such as resource availability and necessitates leadership engagement. Understanding the challenges, developing targeted solutions, and engaging in strategic planning are vital. Addressing these factors would enhance SBE adoption and sustainability, ultimately improving students' clinical competency, preparedness, and clinical placement capacity.