Effects of immersive virtual reality simulation-based maternity nursing education: A randomized controlled trial

Background: We investigated the impact of an immersive virtual reality (IVR)-based scenario simulation education program as an alternative to traditional maternity nursing practicums. Method: A simulation maternity nursing class at Wonkwang University in South Korea was conducted with 59 junior nursing students (experimental group = 30, control group = 29). This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effects of the IVR simulation on students' knowledge, satisfaction, self- efficacy, and confidence in delivering nursing care. We conducted data collection from September 2021 to February 2022. SPSS version 25.0 was used for data analysis. Results: Both groups' most common previous-semester grade was B, followed by A and C. In the experimental group, 17 participants reported high or very high satisfaction, and 12 in the control group reported high satisfaction. The groups showed significant differences in knowledge ( p = .024), satisfaction ( p < .001), self-efficacy ( p = .018), and confidence ( p < .001) in normal vaginal delivery nursing care. Conclusions: Compared to traditional simulation, IVR simulation can enhance maternity nursing students' knowledge, satisfaction, self-efficacy, and confidence.