Effect of standardized patient simulation with bcg vaccination on nursing students' skills, knowledge and satisfaction, and self-confidence: A randomized controlled study

Abstract

Aim: To examine the effect of standardised patient simulation training on nursing students' skills and knowledge in administering the Bacillus Calmette-Guerin vaccine, as well as their satisfaction and self-confidence. Background: The Bacillus Calmette-Guerin vaccine is administered by nurses to prevent tuberculosis. However, there have been reports of complications arising from inadequate knowledge and skills related to Bacillus Calmette-Guerin vaccine administration. Design: A randomised controlled experimental design. Method: This experimental study was conducted between October 2022 and January 2023 at a university, Medical Training and Simulation Centre. The fourth-year nursing students enrolled in their intern term were asked to participate in this experimental study. Participants were allocated to the intervention group (n=45) and the control group (n=45). The control group received only theoretical training and then BCG application on the model. The socio-demographic survey was conducted to collect demographic data. The Bacillus Calmette-Guerin Vaccine Knowledge Form, Bacillus Calmette-Guerin Vaccine Administration Checklist, and the student satisfaction and self-confidence scale in learning were used. The intervention group received simulation training using a standardized patient. All students' knowledge and skills were measured before and 3 months after the theoretical training. Results: Simulation training using standardized patients significantly increased nursing students' Bacillus Calmette-Guerin vaccine knowledge (intervention group=21.57+5.12; control group=15.33+5.61), skills (intervention group=20.88+4.29; control group=10.22+4.56), confidence and satisfaction (intervention group=4.61+0.30; control group=4.17+0.3) compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Training with standardized patient techniques provides students the opportunity to practice realistically in a safe environment, enabling repetitive practice, which enhances self-confidence and satisfaction.