(9) Measuring Nursing Student Communication Competency Through Simulation

Friday, June 20, 2025

2:15 PM – 4:15 PM MST

Location: Plaza Ballroom Foyer

Lead Author(s)

Kelly Niermeier, DNP (she/her/hers)

Assistant Professor
University of South Carolina, College of Nursing
Columbia, South Carolina, United States

Co-Author (Not Presenting)(s)

Stephanie L. Schaller, DNP

Assistant Professor
University of South Carolina, College of Nursing
Columbia, South Carolina, United States
VD

Victoria H. Davis, DNP, APRN, CPNP-PC, CNE

Associate Professor
University of South Carolina, College of Nursing
Columbia, South Carolina, United States

Abstract : The ability to effectively communicate in nursing is critical, however many nursing programs do not provide structured training in this vital area. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s (AACN) 2021 Essentials emphasize communication as a key competency in nursing education. To meet these new standards, nursing programs must integrate innovative methods, such as simulation-based learning experiences (SBLEs), to meet this competency head-on.
This study involved two cohorts of pre-licensure nursing students (n=140) who participated in a pediatric simulation designed using INACSL Standards of Best Practice to improve communication skills related to consent and assent. The scenario involved navigating the complex dynamics between a child seeking treatment and a guardian opposed to it. Students engaged in therapeutic communication, balancing patient advocacy with family-centered care.
Results from post-simulation surveys indicated a significant decrease in student anxiety surrounding pediatric communication (p < 0.001) and increased confidence in handling consent/assent discussions. Qualitative feedback from debriefing sessions highlighted the simulation’s effectiveness in enhancing communication skills and providing students with a realistic, supportive environment to practice essential competencies.
This presentation will explore how a pediatric communication simulation can develop key communication skills and be easily integrated into future course simulations to progressively assess AACN competencies. It will also demonstrate how simulations that utilize INACSL Standards can be effectively implemented to strengthen students’ communication abilities, preparing them to navigate complex, real-world scenarios and deliver high-quality, patient-centered care.

Please include a short summary of your presentation that highlights why an attendee would want to participate in your session.: Join this session to discover how a pediatric communication simulation can be scaffolded to improve and measure student competency in line with AACN Essentials. Participating in this session will provide tools and insights to create meaningful, competency-based educational experiences that not only enhance students’ communication skills but also improve patient outcomes

Learning Objectives:

Describe at least two ways simulation-based learning experiences contribute to the development of communication skills for pediatric settings, in alignment with AACN Essentials’ emphasis on experiential learning and practice readiness.
Identify key components of a simulation scenario aimed at developing communication competencies with pediatric patients and families, supporting AACN’s competency-based approach to nursing education
Identify assessment methods to evaluate learners’ communication competencies that can be scaffolded to other courses that aligns with AACN Essentials
Differentiate the AACN communication competencies within Domain 2 and explain how these competencies apply to nursing practice, specifically focusing on fostering therapeutic relationships and effective communication with patients and families.