Virtual patients in nursing education for readiness in encountering patients exposed to domestic violence: An explanatory sequential mixed-methods study

In this study, we explained and described how virtual patients might contribute to nursing students' perceived readiness to encounter patients exposed to domestic violence and men's violence against women. Virtual patients offer potential to support the training of competencies required for the nursing profession, including addressing complex and sensitive topics, such as domestic violence and violence against women. While nurses are important in addressing patients exposed to domestic violence, many nursing students are not equipped to encounter these situations. An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was employed. The study was conducted in a course in the sixth and final semester of a Swedish nursing programme. Nursing students in the sixth and final semester of their education were invited to participate in the study. Thirty-seven students completed questionnaires before a mandatory virtual patient session, and forty-two completed questionnaires after the session. Two focus group interviews, each with five students, and eight individual interviews were conducted. Pre- and post-test data were analysed as independent samples using descriptive statistics and the Mann-Whitney U test, while interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. Several items indicated higher readiness after the virtual patient session, including asking about domestic violence, with median scores increasing from 4 to 5.5 ( p < .001) and handling practical considerations, such as performing a safety risk assessment, with median scores increasing from 3 to 5 (p < .001). The students also reported using the knowledge in practical contexts after the session, as well as adopting a broader engagement, taking professional responsibility for addressing domestic violence in practice. The virtual patient session contributed to perceived readiness in encountering patients exposed to domestic violence and violence against women. Further research is needed to explore the use of virtual patients for practising these complex situations in nursing education. • Virtual patients improved readiness in encountering victims of domestic violence. • Virtual patients prepared nursing students for complex real-life clinical situations. • Knowledge in handling practical considerations regarding domestic violence increased. • An enhanced professional responsibility for addressing domestic violence was shown. • Virtual patients can be utilised to practice sensitive topics in safe settings.