The benefits of a ward simulation exercise as a learning experience

This article describes the findings from a pilot study undertaken to identify the potential benefits of a ward simulation exercise in developing the capabilities of newly qualified nurses. Eight newly qualified nurses were recruited to participate in this pilot study which was based in the Clinical Skills Centre, Ninewells Hospital. Dundee. This Pilot Stud. Was Performed in Conjunction with NHS Tayside Pract. Educ. Facilitators and the Univ. of Dundee. Data Collec. Methods Involved Reflective Lrng. Logs Which Were Reviewed Independently by An Expert Grp. of Teach. and Practitioners. A Focus Grp. Session Was Also Undertaken to Understand the Lived Experience of the Newly Qualified Nurse during the Ward Simulat. Exercise. Core Themes Related to the Prof. Devmt. of Newly Qualified Nurses That Were Identified Through This Pilot Stud. Were: An Increase in Confidence, Devmt. of Stress Mgmt. Skills, Improved Mgmt. of the Acutely Unwell Patient, the Transf. of Skills Learnt in Simulat. to the Clin. Setting, Devmt. of Commun. Skills and Reflection Skills. Participants in This Pilot Stud. Demonstrated Increased Levels of Confidence in Their Commun. Skills, Their Ability to Prioritize Care and to Engage in Collab. Teamworking.