Effectiveness of Objective Structured Clinical Examinations and Standardized Patient Simulations for Increasing Learner Knowledge in Family Nurse Practitioner Education: A Systematic Review of the Literature.

Aim: The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the effectiveness of using objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs) and standardized patient (SP) simulations in family nurse practitioner (FNP) education to increase students' knowledge and skill competency.

Background: Many programs use OSCE and SP simulation, but there is limited empirical data demonstrating their effectiveness for Kirkpatrick's level of learning.

Method: A systematic search of published and unpublished literature was conducted in seven databases/registries in February 2023. Quantitative, experimental studies and quasi-experimental studies with comparison and explicit FNP learner population were included.

Results: Of 4,442 records, zero studies met the inclusion criteria. Some studies with eligible designs investigated different populations (e.g., acute care nurse practitioner, prelicensure students).

Conclusion: The absence of included studies in this systematic review upholds the established need for continued investigation and can be used to support funding opportunities addressing this critical gap in nursing education science.