Vaccine Hesitancy: Developing Competency in Nursing Students Through Simulation.

Background: Many Americans are undecided about or have barriers to receiving vaccines. Complacency, confidence, convenience, misinformation, and disinformation impact vaccine hesitancy (VH).

Problem: During the COVID-19 pandemic, rates for flu and routine childhood vaccinations declined globally. As vaccination rates decline, the risk of disease outbreaks increases. Nursing students need to be prepared to address VH in the clinical setting.

Approach: Four simulation experiences were developed to build confidence and competency in the provision of vaccinations and addressing VH. Nursing students practiced communication skills critical to motivational interviewing, health education, health promotion, and goal setting.

Outcome: There were statistically significant increases in student confidence and perceived competence in vaccine administration and addressing VH through motivational interviewing.

Conclusions: High-fidelity simulation combined with a virtual simulation was effective in developing confidence among nursing students. Students demonstrated skill in addressing VH and motivational interviewing.