Out of the Simulation Center and Into the Classroom: Using Simulation to Enhance Geriatric Care Competency-Based Education

Abstract :

Background: Healthcare professionals must acquire competencies to meet the complex needs of aging populations. Bridging the gap between geriatric education and practice and addressing the shortfall of healthcare providers in geriatrics are pressing challenges.

Purpose: This project aimed to equip undergraduate nursing students with the essential skills and knowledge required for planning care for geriatric patients. To achieve this, the project introduced simulation in the classroom as a scalable and accessible model for integrating and assessing geriatric care competencies.

Methods: Course faculty and a simulation expert collaborated to design scenarios based on the Age-Friendly Health Systems 4Ms framework. Fifty-six students, working in groups, interacted with simulated patients and caregivers as they moved around the classroom, stopping to talk with each group of students. After completing the simulation, students created a care plan as a mid-term assessment of understanding and completed a post-simulation survey regarding perceived changes in knowledge, confidence, and interest in geriatrics.

Results: Over 86% of students agreed that the experience enhanced their knowledge and confidence, while 62% expressed increased interest in geriatric nursing. Students emphasized the benefits of collaboration, professional development, inclusive participation, and increased understanding of geriatric nursing. Moving simulation into the classroom made geriatric education more accessible and scalable.

Conclusion: This innovative approach of integrating simulation into geriatric education has the potential to enhance the quality of geriatric healthcare, giving students a deeper understanding of geriatric principles. Bringing simulation into the classroom can empower students with skills and competencies needed to deliver high-quality evidence-based care.