The Comprehensive Healthcare Education Simulation Tool (CHEST): A validity and reliability study in nursing education

• Existing simulation-based learning evaluation tools often lack comprehensive assessment of engagement and cultural relevance. • The Comprehensive Healthcare Education Simulation Tool provides a validated measure of simulation-based learning effectiveness, including motivation and faculty support. • Comprehensive Healthcare Education Simulation Tool enables educators to enhance simulation-based learning environments based on student feedback. Simulation-Based Learning (SBL) is vital in nursing education, bridging theory and practice to prepare students for complex care scenarios. However, existing tools often fail to evaluate cultural relevance, engagement, and motivation comprehensively. This study introduces the Comprehensive Healthcare Education Simulation Tool (CHEST), designed to holistically assess SBL experiences, including faculty support, student engagement, motivation, and cultural alignment. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 204 nursing students enrolled in SBL courses. The psychometric properties of CHEST were examined using reliability analysis and construct validity assessment. CHEST demonstrated high reliability, with Cronbach's alpha values of 0.967 for SBL, 0.955 for engagement, and 0.953 for motivation, and an overall value of 0.981. These findings validate CHEST as a robust instrument for assessing diverse dimensions of SBL. CHEST addresses critical gaps in current tools by evaluating cultural and motivational factors, providing nursing educators with actionable data to enhance SBL environments. Widespread adoption could improve simulation-based programs, better prepare nursing students for real-world healthcare demands.