The Effect of High-Fidelity Simulation

on Nursing Students Knowledge and

Performance: A Pilot Study
Principal Investigators
Frank D. Hicks, PhD, RN, Rush University College of Nursing, Chicago, IL
Lola Coke, PhD, RN, Rush University College of Nursing, Chicago, IL
Suling Li, PhD, RN, National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Chicago, IL
National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc. (NCSBN)

High Fidelity simulation refers to structured student learning experiences with the use of a
technologically advanced computerized mannequin, the Human Patient Simulator. HPS is anatomically
precise and reproduces physiologic responses. Students are administered sequential decision-making
events within an environment that mimics a clinical setting. Instructors can control the mannequins
reponses and the HPS can respond to interventions provided by the student. (Gilley, 1990; Graedler,
1992; Lasaster, 2007)
Gaba (2004) describes simulation as a strategy not a technology, to mirror, anticipate, or amplify real
situations with guided experiences in a fully interactive way.
In addition to the need for high equipment fidelity, simulation requires psychological fidelity. This
reflects the degree to which the trainee perceives the simulation to be a believable representation of
the reality it is duplicating. Students may not take it seriously, since mistakes or errors have no real
consequences on patient safety.
The potential to increase the speed of acquisition of clinical skills to a defined level of competence by
allowing the opportunity for repetitive practice at the learners own pace. (Maran and Glavin, 2003)
Access to the simulator is limited and dependent on the availability of instructors and operators.
Simulation also limits the number of students that can be taught at any one time.

Three important variables have been selected to be the focus of this study: knowledge, clinical
performance and confidence.Nursing knowledge and clinical performance are the basis for
undergraduate education and determine the level of competence with which the new graduate enters
the workforce. Because of their importance, they will be observed and measure in this study.