Effects of Using an Advancing Care Excellence for Seniors Simulation Scenario on Nursing Student Empathy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background Low levels of empathy among nursing students can adversely impact patient-centered care (PCC) and patient outcomes. Methods An Advancing Care Excellence for Seniors simulation scenario was delivered to 50 nursing students to improve empathy and PCC by improving active listening and self-awareness. Results Active listening, empathy, and PCC scores in the intervention group compared with the control group and baseline significantly differed at postintervention and four-week follow-up (ps < .001). Self-awareness scores between the groups were significantly different only at four-week follow-up (p < .001). Conclusions Using the Advancing Care Excellence for Seniors simulation scenario was effective in improving the four variables.