Simulation-based training for nurses: systematic review and meta-analysis
Journal article, Peer reviewed
Accepted version
Date
2017-04-19Metadata
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Original version
Hegland PA, Aarlie H, Strømme H, Jamtvedt AG. Simulation-based training for nurses: systematic review and meta-analysis. Nurse Education Today. 2017;54:6-20 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.nedt.2017.04.004Abstract
Background: Simulation-based training is a widespread strategy to improve health-care quality.
However, its effect on registered nurses has previously not been established in systematic reviews. The
aim of this systematic review is to evaluate effect of simulation-based training on nurses’ skills and
knowledge.
Methods: We searched CDSR, DARE, HTA, CENTRAL, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Embase, ERIC, and
SveMed+ for randomised controlled trials (RCT) evaluating effect of simulation-based training among
nurses. Searches were completed in December 2016. Two reviewers independently screened abstracts
and full-text, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias. We compared simulation-based training to other
learning strategies, high-fidelity simulation to other simulation strategies, and different organisation of
simulation training. Data were analysed through meta-analysis and narrative syntheses. GRADE was
used to assess the quality of evidence.
Results: Fifteen RCTs met the inclusion criteria. For the comparison of simulation-based training to
other learning strategies on nurses’ skills, six studies in the meta-analysis showed a significant, but
small effect in favour of simulation (SMD -1.09, CI -1.72 to -0.47). There was large heterogeneity (I²
85%). For the other comparisons, there was large between-study variation in results. The quality of
evidence for all comparisons was graded as low.
Conclusion: The effect of simulation-based training varies substantially between studies. Our meta
analysis showed a significant effect of simulation training compared to other learning strategies, but
the quality of evidence was low indicating uncertainty. Other comparisons showed inconsistency in
results. Based on our findings simulation training appears to be an effective strategy to improve
nurses’ skills, but further good-quality RCTs with adequate sample sizes are needed.