Use of simulation-based education to enhance clinical judgment among prelicensure nursing students

Objectives Clinical judgment is a foundational competency for nursing students but difficult to assess in nursing education. The Lasater Clinical Judgment Rubric can evaluate clinical judgment competence among prelicensure nursing students. Methods A simulation-based intervention was implemented across three campuses at a United States college of nursing. Prelicensure nursing students (N=113) completed a simulation followed by a self-evaluation of clinical judgment competence using the Lasater Clinical Judgment Rubric. Results Simulation can influence competent behavioral performance and is an effective pedagogy to cultivate clinical judgment skills in nursing students. Students self-reported advanced or exemplary competency levels for clinical judgment behaviors assessed. Conclusions Simulation-based self-assessment using the Lasater Clinical Judgment Rubric may be a feasible approach to evaluating nursing students’ perceptions of clinical judgment competence; however, further research using objective measures is recommended. Implications for international audience Clinical judgment is a universal competency required by nurses across practice settings internationally.