Nursing students first experience on high fidelity simulation: A phenomenological research study.

Aim/objective: This study aimed to explore the perceptions of nursing students towards their first experience with high-fidelity simulation (HFS) in a Spanish university.

Background: Simulation experiences are becoming more popular in nursing education, allowing students to practice clinical skills before encountering actual patients.

Methods: A phenomenological approach was used. Sixteen in-depth, semi-structured, qualitative one-on-one interviews were conducted among second-year undergraduate nursing students who had completed a scheduled HFS training program. The interview transcripts were analyzed using Colaizzi's phenomenological method.

Results: Four themes were identified: "Learning through simulation"; "Acting like a nurse instead of being a student"; "Facilitators and barriers of learning"; and "Transition from simulation to reality."

Conclusion: This study provides support for including high-fidelity simulation programs in the nursing curricula to enhance student preparedness for clinical placements.