“Impact of skill training programme on knowledge and skills of nursing students regarding uses of instruments and devices in intensive care unit : A systematic review.”

Background: The dynamic and technologically advanced environment of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) demands well-equipped nursing professionals who are proficient in using critical care instruments and devices. Ensuring nursing students are adequately trained in this domain is essential for patient safety and quality care delivery. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a structured skill training programme on the knowledge and skills of nursing students regarding the use of instruments and devices in the ICU at a tertiary care hospital in Vadodara. Methodology: A quasi-experimental research design with a one-group pre-test and post-test approach was employed. The study participants included nursing students enrolled at a tertiary institution. A comprehensive review of 30 relevant national and international studies guided the development of the training intervention and assessment tools. The literature was categorized into three sections: effectiveness of skill training programmes, knowledge and skills of nursing students, and the usage of ICU instruments and devices. Findings: The literature review highlighted significant improvements in knowledge and skills following targeted training interventions, including simulation-based education, procedural demonstrations, and video-assisted learning. Notably, studies reported enhanced confidence, clinical competence, and reduced procedural errors post-training. This evidence underlined the effectiveness of practical and simulated training methods in critical care education. Conclusion: The findings from both literature and the present study affirm that skill training programmes substantially improve the knowledge and practical competencies of nursing students in ICU settings. Implementing structured, simulation-supported training can bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and clinical application, thereby preparing students for real-world critical care challenges.