Simulation Fidelity and Cognitive Load: Effects on BSN Students' Medication Administration Performance

BACKGROUND: Due to limited experience, new nurses make most medication errors. This study compared how different types of simulation fidelity and other identified covariates predicted nursing students' medication administration competency and cognitive load. METHOD: = 103) participated in a medication administration simulation using either a high-fidelity manikin or a standardized patient. Pre - and posttests compared the effects of these fidelity levels on simulation performance and cognitive load. RESULTS: Students who participated in the high-fidelity manikin simulation, students who reported health care experience, and students who achieved higher academic grades performed better and reported a more balanced cognitive load. CONCLUSION: These findings validate the integration of simulation theory and cognitive load constructs in simulation design. Educators should consider student simulation and clinical experience when selecting fidelity levels to optimize simulation learning outcomes and students' cognitive load.