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.