(13) Enhancing Advanced-Level Competencies with Low-Technology Simulations

Abstract : Designing advanced practice (AP) simulation scenarios effectively targeting pediatric dermatologic assessment and clinical decision-making (CDM) is challenging (Rosenblum & Doucetter, 2023). Pictocards – affordable, life-sized images of children (Pedi-Ed-Trics, n.d.) – offer a low-technology solution for simulating less common but clinically significant conditions. While previous research has demonstrated their effectiveness in undergraduate nursing education (Martinez et al., 2024), their application in AP simulations is unexplored. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the educational impact of incorporating pictocards into a pediatric primary care simulation for family nurse practitioner students. The NLN Jeffries Simulation Theory (Jeffries, 2021) and INACSL Healthcare Simulation Standards of Best PracticeTM (INACSL Standards Committee, 2021), guided the simulation design.
Three pictocards illustrating pediatric dermatologic conditions were integrated into a formative skin assessment simulation. Learners received prebriefing materials, reviewed a history for each case, and assessed each patient. To enhance advanced CDM skills, learners documented findings, formulated differential diagnoses, and identified further information needed to narrow their diagnoses. Following, learners engaged in a plus-delta debrief (Cheng et al., 2021). While participation in the simulation was mandatory, participation in the pilot study (IRB approved) was voluntary.
Learners completed the Simulation Effectiveness Tool-Modified (SET-M; Leighton et al., 2015) to assess the simulation’s effectiveness. Results from 17 learners showed a positive impact, with an overall average SET-M score of 2.74. Students found this low-technology approach to be beneficial and made recommendations to improve the experience. These findings suggest this approach is a promising tool to enhance competency development in AP nursing education.

Please include a short summary of your presentation that highlights why an attendee would want to participate in your session.: Discover how low-technology simulations provide an effective, affordable approach in advanced practice nursing education. This session highlights how life-sized images of rare but clinically significant pediatric dermatologic conditions support learners in developing advanced reasoning and decision-making skills. Learn about pilot study findings on this innovative method’s effectiveness and potential to enhance competency development.