Nursing students use virtual reality to enhance skills: ‘Brings fun to learning’
The use of virtual reality (VR) technology is revolutionizing the way nursing students in St. Louis are trained. At Goldfarb School of Nursing, students are utilizing VR simulations to practice clinical skills, improve communication, and enhance their bedside manner. This innovative approach not only prepares them for real-world situations but also makes learning more engaging and interactive.
With the increasing demand for nurses across the country, VR training has become a valuable tool in combating the shortage of healthcare workers. McKinsey & Company projects a shortage of 200,000 to 450,000 nurses next year, making it crucial for nursing schools to fast track training programs. By incorporating VR technology into their curriculum, Goldfarb School of Nursing is equipping students with the skills they need to excel in a challenging and demanding field.
Katie Jett, the program director at Goldfarb, emphasized the importance of adapting to the ways in which younger generations connect and communicate. She noted that virtual experiences and technology play a significant role in how people interact today, making VR training a natural fit for nursing students. By engaging students in virtual experiences and simulations, they are better prepared to navigate the complexities of patient care and medical tasks.
Zykita Deal, a nursing student at Goldfarb, shared her experience using VR to practice delivering advice to a virtual patient. She highlighted the value of honing communication skills and providing compassionate care to patients, even in a virtual setting. By engaging in realistic scenarios and interacting with virtual patients, students are able to develop critical thinking skills and enhance their ability to provide quality care.
Lesley Schwartz, another nursing student, praised the technology for helping her prepare for real-world situations. She emphasized the importance of being prepared for unexpected challenges and utilizing VR simulations to enhance her readiness. By immersing students in virtual environments and challenging scenarios, nursing schools are equipping them with the tools they need to succeed in a fast-paced and demanding field.
Research by Wolters Kluwer indicates a growing trend in the use of VR technology in nursing education programs, with 65% of programs incorporating VR in some capacity. Goldfarb School of Nursing is at the forefront of this trend, combining VR training with full-body patient simulators to provide a comprehensive and engaging learning experience for students. By integrating advanced nursing scenarios and hands-on training in a virtual environment, Goldfarb is preparing students to excel in their future careers.
As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, the use of VR technology in nursing education is proving to be a valuable asset. By engaging students in immersive and interactive training experiences, nursing schools are ensuring that future healthcare workers are equipped to meet the demands of a challenging and dynamic field. With a focus on innovation and practical skills development, VR training is shaping the future of nursing education in St. Louis and beyond.
