Using Virtual Reality Simulation for Screening Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment

Abstract

Background: This study examined the effects of virtual reality on students' confidence and knowledge in Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT), and understanding of substance use disorders (SUDs) in mental health and primary care settings. Method: Using a pre- and postdesign, questionnaires were distributed before, immediately after, and 3 months after the simulation. Results: Data analysis revealed significant increases in SBIRT characteristics, screening tools, and alcohol consumption guidelines from pre- to postsimulation ( p < .05) among the participants ( n = 380). Confidence levels improved significantly ( p < .001), with no notable difference between post-simulation and follow-up surveys. Conclusion: Simulation training with structured prebriefing and debriefing sessions facilitated the application of learned skills during the simulation, boosting students' self-efficacy and readiness. [ J Nurs Educ . 2024;63(7):453–459.]