Testing a Simulation Framework 1 Running head: TESTING A SIMULATION FRAMEWORK Testing a Simulation Framework Using a Simulation in Insulin Management

Testing a Simulation Framework 2 An exploratory study tested a theory and data-based framework that was used to design, implement, and evaluate simulations used as teaching strategy in a nursing medical/surgical I course. Concepts of the Simulation Model (Jeffries, 2005) included educational principles, student factors, teacher factors, simulation design characteristics, and outcomes. The study tested the model with 60 students from a large Midwest university enrolled in a required medical/surgical course. A 15 minute simulation focusing on caring for an insulin-managed patient followed by a 15 minute guided reflection time was designed and facilitated by the clinical instructor. Students were randomly assigned roles: nurse, student nurse, simulated patient, family member, and observer for the simulation experience. There were no significant differences in knowledge gains from pre/post tests on insulin management, however the students were found to be self-confident in caring for an insulin-managed patient in the clinical setting. Overall, the students were very satisfied with the instructional method and desired more simulated learning experiences in their courses