Student-perceived influences on performance during simulation

Background: Understanding the effect of the context of simulation to learning and performance is critical to ensure not only optimal learning but to provide a valid and reliable means to evaluate performance. The purpose of this study is to identify influences on performance from the student perspective and understand the contextual barriers inherent in simulation before using simulation for high-stakes testing. Method: This study used a qualitative descriptive design. Senior nursing students (N = 29) provided nursing care during simulation. Vocalized thoughts during simulation and reflective debriefing were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was conducted on transcribed data. Results: Student performance during simulation was influenced by anxiety, uncertainty, technological limitations, and experience with the patient condition. Students had few previous simulation-based learning experiences that may have influenced performance. Conclusions: More needs to be understood regarding factors affecting simulation performance before pass-or-fail decisions are made using this technology.