Comparison of the Effect of Practical Training and Integrated Simulated-practical Training on the Knowledge and Skills of Using Ventilator in Nursing Students

Abstract

Abstract Background Ventilator is one of the most complex equipment used in intensive care units. Applying new approaches for more effective and sustainable training of ventilator use by nurses is critical. This study compared the effect of two methods of practical training and integrated simulated-practical training on the knowledge and skills of using ventilators by nursing students. Methods In this quasi-experimental study, 72 nursing students were enrolled in the study and randomly assigned into two groups using the simple random sampling method. One group received practical training and the other group received integrated simulated-practical training. The knowledge before and after training and the skill of using the ventilator after training were measured and compared in two groups. The data were analyzed with SPSS22 using independent t-test and paired t-test. Results The findings showed that the mean score of ventilator knowledge in each group increased after training compared to before and the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.001); yet, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. The total mean adjustment time was 418.32(± 70.73) s in the practical training group and 366.24(± 27.97) s in the integrated simulated-practical training group, the difference of which was statistically significant (P = 0.005). The mean skill score of using ventilator was 28.34(± 1.98) in the practical training group and 29.88(± .398) in the integrated simulated-practical training group, showing a statistically significant difference (P = 0.001). Conclusion Both methods had similar efficiency in improving knowledge. Due to the higher speed of operation and greater skill in the integrated simulated-practical training method, this method is recommended for training nursing students.