International journal of Nursing Science Practice and Research
Virtual Reality in Nursing Education: Enhancing Clinical Training and Competency
1. Research Scholar, Department of Nursing Education and Administration Malwanchal University, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India.
2. Research Supervisor, Department of Nursing Education and Administration Malwanchal University, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India.
Abstract
Background: The integration of virtual reality (VR) in nursing education has emerged as a transformative approach to bridge gaps in clinical training, particularly where traditional hands-on opportunities are limited. This study investigates the effectiveness of VR-based simulation on improving clinical competency and self-efficacy among undergraduate nursing students. Methods: A quasi-experimental, pre-test/post-test design was employed with 60 final-year nursing students divided into control (traditional training) and experimental (VR training) groups. Participants underwent Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCE) and self-efficacy assessments before and after the intervention. The VR module simulated emergency care and nursing procedures in a high-fidelity immersive environment. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests and ANOVA to assess statistical significance. Results: Students in the VR group demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in OSCE scores (mean difference: 15.4, P < .001) compared to the control group. Self-efficacy scores also increased substantially in the experimental group post-intervention (P < .01). Graphical and tabular data confirmed consistent performance enhancement across all competency domains. Conclusion: VR-based simulation significantly enhances clinical skills acquisition and learner confidence in nursing students. These findings support VR’s integration into nursing curricula as a scalable, immersive tool for developing clinical competence in a risk-free environment. Further longitudinal studies are recommended to evaluate long-term retention and cost-effectiveness.
Keywords: Virtual reality, nursing education, clinical simulation, self-efficacy, OSCE, immersive learning, competency development
Keywords
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