Effectiveness of Simulation-Based Learning in Enhancing Communication and Teamwork Skills among Nursing Students

Background: Effective communication and teamwork are critical competencies in nursing, directly influencing patient outcomes and safety. Traditional pedagogical approaches often fall short in providing experiential learning opportunities for these essential skills. Simulation-Based Learning (SBL) offers a realistic and interactive platform for students to engage in clinical scenarios that foster communication and collaborative practice. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of SBL in enhancing communication and teamwork skills among undergraduate nursing students. Methods: A quasi-experimental study design was adopted involving 100 nursing students divided into two groups: a SBL group (n=50) receiving Simulation-Based Learning and a TL group (n=50) exposed to traditional classroom instruction. Communication skills were assessed using the Communication Skills Attitude Scale (CSAS), and teamwork abilities were measured using the TeamSTEPPS Teamwork Perception Questionnaire (T-TPQ). Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted to evaluate changes in skill levels. Results: For communication skills (CSAS), the SBL group achieved a significantly higher post-test mean score of 85.7 (SD = 5.8) compared to 70.2 (SD = 6.0) in the TL group. Similarly, for teamwork abilities, the SBL group scored 83.4 (SD = 6.1), markedly higher than the TL group's score of 68.1 (SD = 6.4). The SBL group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in both communication and teamwork scores compared to the TL group (p < 0.05). Students in the SBL group reported higher confidence, better role clarity, and improved interprofessional collaboration. Conclusion: Simulation-Based Learning is an effective educational strategy for enhancing communication and teamwork skills among nursing students. Integrating simulation into nursing curricula can bridge the gap between theory and practice, preparing students for real-world clinical challenges.