Innovative Simulation Adaptations to Reach Home-Visiting Nurses in Rural, Frontier, and Metro Locations in Colorado

Abstract :

Introduction:
There is limited knowledge or research to support the use of simulation-based learning within nurse home-visiting models of care. The University of Colorado- Colorado Springs (UCCS) Simulation Learning Center (SLC) has partnered with the Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP) in Colorado to provide innovative in-person and video simulation opportunities for home-visiting nurses.
Learners:
A team of eight MSN-prepared NFP nurses participated in nine simulation events over four years. The subsequent adaptation of video simulations was designed for new graduate nurses, or nurses who were new to the specialty of home-visitation. The video simulations have reached approximately 20 learners across Colorado.

Methods:
The in-person simulation scenarios focused on low-frequency, high-risk client topics to meet the educational needs of experienced NFP nurses. Two video simulation scenarios were developed to meet the needs of new NFP nurses. These partially scripted recorded scenarios featured interactive pre-briefs, focused observation, and group debriefs.

Results:
In-person simulations with the UCCS NFP team have become a valued part of staff education. Learners have described these sessions as engaging and effective. 91% of nurses who attended the video simulation training rated the quality of the training as 5/5 stars and 91% of participants reported that it was “extremely relevant” to their needs as NFP nurses.

Conclusion:
UCCS and NFP in Colorado continue to collaboratively adapt simulation-based learning to better prepare home-visiting nurses for autonomous care in the home and community setting. The video simulation training will be offered to all NFP nurses and supervisors across the state starting in 2024.