Preparing for the Next Generation NCLEX Using a Virtual Simulation

Abstract

Background: Virtual clinical simulation is a digital innovation that augments clinical reasoning and clinical judgment, narrowing the theory-practice gap, preparing new graduates for the Next Generation NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination), and mitigating the demand for clinical placement and clinical faculty. Method: The purpose of this article is to describe an educational innovation employing a virtual clinical simulation using the tenets of Tanner's Clinical Judgment Model and a National League for Nursing Advancing Care Excellence for Seniors unfolding case. Results: A virtual clinical simulation successfully served to replace direct care clinical for 86 undergraduate nursing students enrolled in a foundation nursing course, augmenting the students' ability to transfer and apply theoretical knowledge to clinical practice. Conclusion: This virtual clinical simulation served as a viable platform for teaching clinical reasoning and clinical judgment, mitigating the education-practice gap for new graduate registered nurses. [ J Nurs Educ . 2023;62(X):XXX–XXX.]