The Perceived Effectiveness of a Suicide Assessment Virtual Simulation Module for Undergraduate Nursing Students

BackgroundNursing students identify a lack of knowledge and clinical experience in the assessment of suicidal risk, which can negatively impact the care provided to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. The purpose of this study was to explore the perceived effectiveness of a Suicidal Ideation – Assessment of Risk virtual simulation module for undergraduate nursing students.MethodA mixed methods explanatory sequential design study was conducted with third-year nursing students (N = 130) enrolled in a mental health nursing course from an Ontario-based university. The effectiveness of the virtual simulation was evaluated using the Simulation Effectiveness Tool-Modified (SET-M), followed by semi-structured individual interviews (n = 8).ResultsThe virtual simulation was perceived to be effective. Due to the sensitive topic of suicide, this study validated the importance of adhering to the Healthcare Standards of Best Practice 2021, specifically a structured debrief with a skilled facilitator. Qualitative findings identified increased learning, preparedness, confidence, knowledge, critical reflection, and decreased anxiety.ConclusionThis virtual simulation module reinforced the importance of providing application-based mental health assessment experiences prior to entering clinical practice.