DefinePK

Abstract

Background: Pressure ulcers impose significant clinical and financial burdens on healthcare systems, particularly in low-resource settings. Nursing students often lack practical competencies in prevention due to gaps between theoretical education and clinical application. Simulation training offers a viable solution by bridging these gaps through immersive, real-world scenarios.
Aim: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of simulation training on enhancing undergraduate nursing students’ knowledge and competency in pressure ulcer prevention at the Institute of Nursing Sciences, Khyber Medical University (INS KMU).
Methods: A quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test design was employed with 54 undergraduate nursing students selected via simple random sampling. Participants underwent simulation training involving manikins, repositioning techniques, and patient education scenarios. Data were collected using a validated and reliable questionnaire (CVI = 0.98, Cronbach’s α = 0.97) assessing knowledge (10 items) and competency (15 items). Scores were categorized as high, moderate, or needing improvement. Statistical analysis included paired t-tests and chi-square tests using SPSS version 27.
Results: Knowledge scores rose significantly from a mean of 5.02 ± 1.74 to 8.47 ± 1.31 (mean difference = 3.45; t = 15.87; p < 0.001). Competency scores improved from 9.38 ± 2.23 to 13.21 ± 1.76 (mean difference = 3.83; t = 17.12; p < 0.001). No significant associations were observed between gender, year of study, or prior training and post-test knowledge (all p > 0.05) or competency levels (all p > 0.05), indicating uniform benefits across subgroups.