Comparing Virtual Simulations to Paper Case Studies in Combination With Manikin-Based Medication Administration Simulations

Abstract

Background: Medication errors are among the most common preventable adverse events in health care. Methods: A quasi-experimental approach with a pre/posttest design was used to explore the effectiveness of an enhanced medication administration simulation bundle that included the use of manikin-based simulation-based experiences (SBEs) in combination with either virtual SBEs (V-SBEs) for deliberate practice (DP) or traditional paper case studies for DP on safe medication administration in undergraduate nursing students. Results: Nursing students (n = 101) participated in multiple medication administration–focused SBEs including DP via V-SBEs or DP via traditional paper case studies. Student performance in the medication administration SBEs improved after the third experience. There was no statistically significant difference between the V-SBE groups compared with the traditional paper case study groups across the 3 medication administration–focused SBEs. Conclusion: Findings from this study highlight the importance of DP with medication administration for undergraduate nursing students.