Authors

  1. Dudas, Kimberly PhD, RN-BC, CNE
  2. Wheeler, Jana DNP, PPCNP-BC, CHSE, CNE

Article Content

Nurse educators are always looking to add a sense of realism to simulations to promote student learning. Although realism is important, improving fidelity can be challenging and resource intense. To address a need identified by clinical partners, a small baccalaureate program brainstormed methods to incorporate patient communication into its simulation experiences. In looking at the physical space and comparing it with an actual hospital room, the faculty determined that something was missing-a patient communication board. A communication board is typically an erasable white board with key information relevant to the patient and secured in a visible location near the bedside. Widespread use in practice suggests communication boards are an important component to keeping the patient and family informed. Purchasing predesigned communication boards was not feasible so the faculty designed its own board with feedback from clinical partners. The program purchased oversized large glass white boards for durability and to visually provide students with a communication cue. With the help of a local K-12 teacher and a Cricut machine, boards were created for 2 simulation rooms. Costs included board purchase and Cricut supplies. The simulation room boards reflect important information to communicate to patients and families and incorporate into simulations beginning with prebrief. Student and faculty feedback indicated the communication boards added authenticity to simulations that helped the physical environment seem more realistic and urged them to think about using the boards in their clinical experiences.