Piloting novel haptic devices for newborn simulation: Nurse practitioner and nurse simulationist perspectives and experiences

ABSTRACT: In this study, we investigated nurse practitioner (NP) and nursing simulationist perspectives and experiences using novel wearable haptic devices for newborn simulation. This was a mixed methods pilot study including 12 participants (n = 12) at a large Southeastern university. Procedures included simulation stations where NP and nursing simulation faculty used a trainer manikin and mechanically engineered haptic devices to perceive sensations on the fingertips and hand (vibration and thermal). These devices were used to evaluate accurate assessment of simulated body temperature, femoral and brachial pulses, hip examination, and papular rash on a newborn. Validated acceptance and usability surveys were used, followed by individual semi-structured participant interviews. Quantitative acceptance and usability scores were positively rated. Highest rates of acceptance were noted in attitude toward use and intention to use. The lowest item reported in usability revolved around technical support; participants reported they would need more than average help to use the haptic devices. Most participants were able to successfully complete all physical examination items with the largest accuracy barriers noted in the hip examination and thermal palpation. All participants were able to calculate at least one newborn pulse. Four overarching qualitative themes were found in haptic experience with valuable details on diverse perspectives. Our novel newborn haptic devices demonstrate early feasibility, usability, and acceptance for advanced practice newborn simulation. Findings from this study have important implications for interdisciplinary collaboration, nursing education, nursing simulation, and advanced care of the maternal-newborn dyad.