Developing virtual gaming simulations for complex clients with substance use through international collaborations

<h2>Abstract</h2><h3>Background</h3> The aim of this paper was to describe how six nurse educators and three nursing students from Canada, Northern Ireland and Finland developed a virtual gaming simulation (VGS) on a client with a complex medication profile to fill a gap in an undergraduate nursing curriculum. The VGS navigates learners to engage in a scenario with a client admitted for an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. <h3>Method</h3> The international collaboration occurred through continuous dialogue and reflective practice to ensure the inclusion of country-specific practices and laws. <h3>Lessons Learned</h3> The international collaboration allowed educators and students to take a unified approach to address country specific best practices, such as medication administration and the intricacies of cannabis legality. A theoretical lens enhanced the development and structure of the VGS. The student voice provided a holistic perspective. <h3>Conclusion</h3> International collaborations with nurse educators and students can enhance the VGS design process by facilitating diverse perspectives. This VGS invited learners to engage in a clinical scenario to learn about the importance of providing person-centered care to a client with a complex profile.