The Pathway to Developing a Competency-based Tool for Entry-level Nursing Simulation: A Delphi Study

Background: Simulation-based learning experiences allow undergraduate nursing students to develop competence and confidence through deliberate practice with immediate feedback on the learner's performance through debriefing. With the transition to competency-based nursing education, nursing faculty need more guidance in implementing competency-based evaluations in the simulation setting. Purpose: This Delphi study aims to inform the future development of a competency-based tool – SimComp – based on the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials. Methods: A Delphi framework was used to recruit expert nursing faculty to complete the surveys via an online platform. Data analysis occurred through open-ended questions and quantitative methods to ensure that the responses from expert panelists were used to form the results. Results: After four rounds of this Delphi study, a consensus was achieved on 111 appropriate items for assessing competence in the simulation-based learning environment. Conclusion: While further research is warranted, this study provides insight for nursing institutions considering implementing or increasing the use of simulation within their program for competency-based evaluations.