RESUMO
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of simulation-based learning on the knowledge about and performance confidence in the nursing care of children with asthma. METHODS: A one-group pre- and post- study design was used. A total of 70 nursing students participated in the study. In groups of five, the participants experienced simulation-based learning during their child health nursing practicum. The given scenario was about nursing care for children with asthma. The simulation learning was provided for 3 hours, and included a group discussion before the simulation and a debriefing. RESULTS: After the simulation, knowledge about and performance confidence in the nursing care of children with asthma significantly increased. The nursing students reported a high level of satisfaction with the simulation-based learning. There was a significant positive correlation between knowledge and performance confidence. CONCLUSION: Simulation-based learning was effective for nursing students in the nursing care of children with asthma. Our results suggest utilizing this new way of learning to strengthen the clinical experience of child health nursing in nursing students.