Assessing staff readiness for simulation in a Health Sciences Institution

A research report submitted to the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Nursing. Johannesburg, 2018.Background: Simulation has been considered a possible solution to the recorded imbalance in the number of students, clinical instructors and clinical placements. The perceived simulation benefits have led to an increase in investment by health sciences institutions through the purchase of equipment and set up of a simulation laboratory, but with a lack of proper planning and structure for its integration into the curriculum. Frotjold (2015) indicated that poor staff preparation and planning can inhibit the adoption of simulation thereby limiting its utilization. Purpose: To examine the readiness of lecturers from the five departments within the school of therapeutic health sciences at a university in South Africa to adapting simulation-based education and identify factors preventing or promoting the successful use of the new methodology. Methodology: A quantitative cross-sectional descriptive design was adopted utilizing a validated Simulation Culture Organizational Readiness Survey (SCORS) 24 item, 5-point likert scale. Sections of the survey addressed: Defined need and support for change; readiness for culture change; time, personnel and resource readiness; and sustainability practices to embed culture. A total population sampling method was adopted, and lecturers identified were contacted electronically using the Redcap software. Result: The results of this study showed that lecturers in The School were “somewhat ready” for simulation (107.5). This was due to a lack of strategic vision (2.78), the lack of resources (2.3), and insufficient staff education (2.52). The fact that innovation and experiential learning was central to the institution’s mission and philosophy (4.02), the technological proficiency of lecturers (3.56) and positive attitudes (3.5) promoted the use of simulation. Conclusion/Recommendation: Evaluating staff readiness and providing training to empower staff is recommended for institutions initiating simulation to achieve successful student outcomes with simulation use.LG201