Transforming future nurses through simulation in mental health nursing

Abstract

Background and objective: Nursing students may not have a true understanding of the lived experience of patients who hear voices (auditory hallucinations). The authors proposed that a “hearing voices” simulation experience would be an effective method for providing this educational content. The aim of this study was to implement and evaluate an experiential, mental health simulation activity and determine if attitudes, understanding, and empathy of nursing students were impacted.

Methods: A narrative content analysis was utilized to compare pre- and post-simulation descriptive narratives in this qualitative study.

Results: Four themes emerged and findings indicate that the simulation positively impacted the attitudes, understanding, and empathy of nursing students.

Conclusions: This study supports previous research on the impact of a “hearing voices” simulation and provides additional corroboration for its use as an effective teaching strategy in equipping future nurses to provide quality healthcare for those with mental illness.