Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Different Training Techniques in the Development of Leopold's Maneuver Skills: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background: This randomized controlled trial evaluated the outcomes of simulation- and video-based training for teaching nursing students Leopold's maneuver. Their self-efficacy and anxiety levels were also explored.

Method: Data were collected among 121 participants [low-fidelity simulator group (LFSG) n = 43; video training group (VTG) n = 41; control group (CG) n = 37] using a Student Information Form, Leopold's Maneuver Skill Checklist, Spielberger State Anxiety Inventory, and General Self-Efficacy Scale. The primary outcome measure was the participants' performance; the secondary outcome measures were their anxiety and self-efficacy levels and grade point averages.

Results: The LFSG and VTG participants performed Leopold's maneuvers better than the CG participants. A negative correlation between anxiety and self-efficacy in the LFSG and CGs was found, while there was a positive correlation between grade point average and self-efficacy in the VTG.

Conclusions: Educational institutions with an insufficient number of instructors and laboratory infrastructure can use video-based training as an alternative to simulation-based education to reach more students.