The Emory Nursing Learning Center stands at the forefront of innovation in nursing education, actively fostering advancements in simulation methodologies, research, and practical application. Emory University’s School of Nursing faculty are deeply engaged in pioneering studies that not only enhance the learning experience for nursing students but also contribute significantly to the broader field of healthcare simulation. Explore a selection of these impactful research initiatives that highlight the Emory Nursing Learning Center’s commitment to excellence.
One notable study, published in PubMed, delves into an “Innovative Educational Approach Integrating Simulation, Classroom, and Clinical Practice for Teaching Pediatric Nursing.” This research emphasizes a meticulously designed curriculum where classroom lectures are directly linked to simulated patient scenarios within the Emory Nursing Learning Center. Crucially, instructors seamlessly integrate simulation materials into clinical practice settings, ensuring a cohesive and reinforcing learning experience. This synchronized approach guarantees that clinical assignments directly complement simulation exercises and lecture content, creating a holistic educational journey for students specializing in pediatric nursing.
The adaptability and cutting-edge nature of the Emory Nursing Learning Center are further exemplified in a study comparing virtual simulation with traditional clinical practice. Titled “Comparison of Virtual Simulation to Clinical Practice for Pre-licensure Nursing Students in Pediatrics,” this research became particularly relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study rigorously assessed the standardized test scores of pre-licensure nursing students who completed their pediatric clinical rotations either in person (encompassing both clinical and simulation settings) or virtually. This comparative analysis provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of virtual simulation as a robust alternative to in-person clinical practice, especially during times of disruption and beyond, showcasing the Emory Nursing Learning Center’s ability to adapt and innovate in response to evolving educational needs.
Recognizing the importance of comprehensive healthcare education, Emory faculty have also investigated the role of simulation in addressing critical societal factors influencing health. The study, “Assessing baccalaureate nursing students’ knowledge and attitudes of social determinants of health after a health equity simulation,” highlights this commitment. This pilot study focused on evaluating nursing students’ understanding and perspectives regarding social determinants of health (SDoH) and health equity following a targeted simulation activity within the Emory Nursing Learning Center. By integrating simulations focused on health equity, Emory ensures its nursing graduates are not only clinically proficient but also deeply aware of the broader social context of healthcare and prepared to advocate for health equity.
Finally, the Emory Nursing Learning Center’s dedication to preparing nurses for a wide range of real-world scenarios is evident in the development of a “low-cost disaster preparedness simulation for pre-licensure nursing students.” This initiative reports on an educational strategy designed to equip nursing students with essential disaster response skills. The Emory Nursing Learning Center implements an emergency preparedness disaster simulation (EPDS) within its simulation lab, utilizing patient simulators, task trainer mannequins, and even live actors to create immersive and realistic training environments. The EPDS plunges student groups into a simulated “tornado-ravaged assisted-living facility,” allowing them to apply emergency preparedness principles in a high-pressure, yet controlled setting.
In conclusion, these diverse research initiatives underscore the Emory Nursing Learning Center’s pivotal role in advancing nursing education through innovative simulation techniques. By continually exploring and refining simulation methodologies across various healthcare domains, from pediatric care to disaster response and health equity, Emory is shaping the future of nursing practice and preparing highly competent and compassionate healthcare professionals.
