Developing virtual gaming simulations for complex clients with substance use through international collaborations

Background

The aim of this paper was to describe how six nurse educators and three nursing students from Canada, Northern Ireland and Finland developed a virtual gaming simulation (VGS) on a client with a complex medication profile to fill a gap in an undergraduate nursing curriculum. The VGS navigates learners to engage in a scenario with a client admitted for an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Method

The international collaboration occurred through continuous dialogue and reflective practice to ensure the inclusion of country-specific practices and laws.

Lessons Learned

The international collaboration allowed educators and students to take a unified approach to address country specific best practices, such as medication administration and the intricacies of cannabis legality. A theoretical lens enhanced the development and structure of the VGS. The student voice provided a holistic perspective.

Conclusion

International collaborations with nurse educators and students can enhance the VGS design process by facilitating diverse perspectives. This VGS invited learners to engage in a clinical scenario to learn about the importance of providing person-centered care to a client with a complex profile.