Background Challenges exist for nursing students as they transition to their role as newly licensed registered nurses (NLRNs) due to a mismatch between their perceived readiness and role competency and the demands of the practice environment. Simulations with debriefing may be one strategy to better prepare students for the role of a NLRN. The purpose of this study was to explore whether supplementing traditional clinical experiences with simulation versus substituting simulation for traditional clinical experiences had an impact on NLRNs\u27 perception of competence, work stress, and job satisfaction. Sample A convenience sample of 115 NLRNs from two successive graduating classes in a Midwestern traditional baccalaureate nursing program who participated in the same curriculum with different uses of simulation were recruited. Methods A quasi-experimental design was used to compare the two groups of NLRNs at six months of practice. Results The NLRNs with supplemented simulation had higher job satisfaction. Conclusion These results suggest that programs that use simulation to supplement traditional clinical experiences may lead to increased job satisfaction in NLRNs
