Introduction: The increasing complexity of healthcare demands nursing students be proficient in clinical skills and decision-making before entering real-world settings. Traditional clinical training faces challenges such as limited exposure to critical scenarios and risks associated with practicing on patients. Virtual Reality (VR) simulation offers immersive, interactive learning environments that may enhance skill acquisition, confidence, and preparedness across key nursing competencies.
Methods: This descriptive quantitative study assessed the impact of VR training on nursing students’ abilities in performing medical procedures, conducting patient assessments, and managing emergency scenarios. A purposive sample of 120 undergraduate nursing students who completed VR simulation modules participated. Data were collected via an electronic questionnaire comprising 15 Likert-scale statements (five per domain), measuring perceived improvements in skills, confidence, decision-making, and anxiety reduction. Descriptive statistics including means and standard deviations were calculated to analyze responses.
Results: Students reported strong agreement that VR enhanced their clinical competence across all domains. The mean scores for performing medical procedures, patient assessment, and emergency scenario handling were 4.52, 4.48, and 4.50 respectively (on a 5-point scale), indicating “Strongly Agree.” Participants highlighted that VR provided realistic, risk-free practice opportunities, which improved procedural accuracy, systematic assessment skills, rapid decision-making, and emotional readiness. Furthermore, repeated VR exposure reduced anxiety and increased confidence in managing high-pressure clinical situations.
Discussion: Findings corroborate prior research demonstrating VR’s effectiveness in bridging theory and practice in nursing education. VR simulation supports development of both technical and cognitive skills, while fostering psychological preparedness essential for quality patient care. Incorporating VR into nursing curricula can enhance clinical readiness and better prepare students for diverse, high-stakes healthcare environments.
Keywords: Virtual Reality, Nursing Education, Clinical Simulation, Patient Assessment, Emergency Training.
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