Development and Implementation of Unfolding Pediatric Simulations

Abstract

Background: Inpatient pediatric clinical placements for undergraduate nursing students can present a challenge, given the limited number of pediatric hospitals and growing demand for clinical placements. Pediatric clinical learning experiences are also impacted by increasing restrictions in patient care and variations in disease patterns. Subsequently, unfolding simulation scenarios were developed as a critical component of undergraduate pediatric rotations.

Method: The literature was searched to determine the top admitting diagnoses for pediatric admissions. Unfolding pediatric simulations were developed and implemented to replace clinical hours and standardize pediatric clinical experiences for common diseases.

Results: Five unfolding simulations were developed over a 2-year period. By the end of that period, 36.5% of traditional clinical hours had been replaced. Student clinical readiness indicators demonstrated increases in critical thinking and preparedness.

Conclusion: Unfolding pediatric clinical simulations are a useful alternative to traditional clinical placement, and they can provide consistent exposure to common pediatric conditions. [J Nurs Educ. 2020;59(2):107-110.].