RESUMO
BACKGROUND: the literature suggests that simulation is an effective strategy to meet the learning needs of nursing students. Traditionally, simulation learning for nursing students takes place at nursing schools ; at a distance from the clinical setting, patients, and the interprofessional team. AIM: the objective of this pilot project is to explore the experiences of Francophone nursing students following their participation in an interprofessional simulation in a hospital setting during their third year clinical placements. METHOD: a case study using Yin's (2003) approach was used to explore this phenomenon through focus groups and individual interviews. RESULTS: thirteen people participated in three simulation sessions that each included two scenarios. Content analysis of the focus groups revealed four themes : 1) the need for a realistic, but safe environment ; 2) simulation helps to build self-confidence ; 3) simulation improves knowledge of the role of the nurse ; and 4) simulation improves knowledge of teamwork. Two themes emerged from individual interviews : 1) the knowledge and skills acquired during the simulation were retained over time ; and 2) perceptions of the effects on the quality and safety of patient care. CONCLUSION: the use of simulation could be effective for the development of knowledge of nursing role, teamwork, and self-confidence.
