Development of a simulation placement in a pre-registration nursing programme

Background: A four week simulation placement using an innovative blended approach was developed and delivered, which has been the first tariffed simulation placement in the UK for student nurses. Aims: To describe how this flexible simulation placement was developed, operationalised and adapted due to COVID 19. Whilst exploring the student nurses’ experiences and preparedness for practice. Methods: An anonymous online survey was undertaken and a placement evaluation was completed and compared to traditional clinical placement evaluations for previous students at the same point in their studies. Results: Students were comparably satisfied with the simulation placement when compared to real practice placements. 92% students were satisfied with their simulated placement experience and 92% felt prepared for practice. Conclusion: This simulated placement has been an acceptable replacement to real practice placements