Effects of a skin tear virtual simulation on wound care nurses' knowledge and skills

Abstract

To develop a virtual simulation for skin tears (STs) and evaluate the effect of this simulation on wound care nurses’ knowledge and skill levels. METHODS: – This study used a pre/post–follow-up design and was conducted in four phases. Researchers developed a virtual simulation on STs (SteVis), the scenario, and the simulation software, and conducted its pilot application within the first 3 stages. In the final stage, researchers evaluated the effect of the SteVis on wound care nurses’ knowledge and skill levels. Data were collected using the individual characteristics form, Skin Tear Knowledge Assessment Instrument, skin tear skill assessment form, and SteVis feedback form at 3 time points: before the simulation (T0; n=42), after the simulation (T1; n=42) and at a 2-month follow-up (T2; n=31). RESULTS: – Participants’ knowledge (F=7.679; P=.001) and skill scores (F=20.969; P<.001) regarding STs increased in T1 and T2 measurements compared with before the simulation. There was no statistically significant difference in the knowledge scores of the participants between T1 and T2 measurements (P>.05). However, in all measurements, the participants’ skill levels increased significantly (P<.05). CONCLUSIONS: – The study demonstrated that the use of SteVis increased wound care nurses’ knowledge and skill levels regarding STs. Future experimental studies should explore the long-term effects of the SteVis on nurses’ knowledge and skill levels.