(56) Disaster Simulation: Are full-scale experiences worthwhile?

Abstract : Disaster preparedness is essential to baccalaureate nursing education. Educators are charged with incorporating simulation-based disaster exercises to achieve these outcomes. Modalities range from full-scale drills with complex logistical planning and cost to tabletop activities with simpler logistics and minimal cost. Programs must meet educational requirements within the limits of available resources. Determining the effectiveness of disaster preparedness instruction with respect to cost and resource allocation is necessary to ensure sustainability.

Both simulation and tabletop exercises are used in disaster training, but the efficacy of one approach versus the other is lacking. A comparative quasi-experimental design was used to explore satisfaction, confidence, and perception of effectiveness and knowledge acquisition among nursing students regarding 2 disaster preparedness training methods: simulation and tabletop exercises. Validated survey tools were completed by self-selected senior baccalaureate nursing students after the experiences. Findings from the pilot project informed the standardization of facilitators.

Both modalities demonstrated a statistically significant increase in perceived knowledge through pre and post tests. The tabletop cohort perceived prebriefing to increase their confidence and debriefing to contribute to their learning more than the full-scale cohort. The full-scale cohort reported increased confidence when communicating with patients and a better opportunity for practicing clinical decision making skills. Both modalities are effective learning tools, standardized trained facilitators in alignment with Healthcare Simulation Standard of Best Practice (HSSBP) is beneficial. Further research is needed to enhance understanding of the effectiveness of tabletop and full-scale simulations for disaster preparedness in nursing education.

Please include a short summary of your presentation that highlights why an attendee would want to participate in your session.: Our presentation explores our mission in determining if full-scale disaster simulations are worth the intense resource allocation necessary to achieve these experiences for undergraduate nursing students or if a tabletop exercise is as effective in achieving perceived learning outcomes. Our findings can inform nursing programs that must meet educational requirements within the limits of available resources.