The Effect of Simulation-Based Education on Patient Training Correct Inhaler Technique of Nursing Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Introduction Teaching inhaler techniques to nursing students is crucial. Objective This study aimed to investigate the effect of simulation-based education on patient training correct inhaler technique in nursing students. Methods This is a single-blind, randomized controlled trial in which nursing students are randomly allocated into two groups of control (n = 41) and intervention (n = 40). The students’ mean score of correct inhaler technique was measured before and one week after intervention, using checklists of inhaler techniques. Results The mean score of control group was significantly lower than the intervention group ( p < .001). The results also revealed that there was no significant difference in students’ level of confidence regarding the ability to educate patients on inhaler techniques before the intervention, while all students were shown to have higher levels of confidence in this term after the intervention. Conclusions Simulation is an effective way to train nursing students in the correct inhaler techniques.