“A Study to Assess the Effectiveness of Simulation based Neonatal Resuscitation on the Confidence Level among Nursing Students in Selected Nursing Colleges of Metropolitan City.”

Abstract

Background: Neonatal resuscitation is a critical intervention for infants who fail to initiate breathing at birth, with birth asphyxia being a leading cause of neonatal mortality globally. In India, neonatal deaths remain high despite the availability of training programs such as the Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP). Nurses play a pivotal role in managing neonatal emergencies; however, studies have shown that many lack adequate knowledge, practical skills, and confidence in performing neonatal resuscitation. Simulation-based training has emerged as an effective method to enhance clinical competence, decision-making, and confidence in a safe, controlled environment.

Objective: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of simulation-based neonatal resuscitation training on the confidence of nursing students.

Methods: A quasi-experimental, non-equivalent pre-test post-test control group design was employed. Eighty 6th-semester nursing students from selected colleges were purposively sampled and divided equally into experimental (n=40) and control (n=40) groups. The experimental group received structured simulation-based training, while the control group not received any instruction. Data were collected using a self-structured questionnaire and a modified confidence assessment scale, and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: Pretest scores indicated low confidence across both groups. Post-intervention, the experimental group showed a significant increase in confidence, with 87.5% achieving moderate and 15.0% attaining high confidence levels, whereas the control group demonstrated no significant change. Comparative analysis confirmed that simulation-based training significantly enhanced students’ confidence in neonatal resuscitation. No significant association was observed between demographic variables and baseline confidence levels.

Conclusion: Simulation-based neonatal resuscitation training is highly effective in improving the confidence of nursing students, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and clinical practice. Structured simulation sessions foster critical thinking, psychomotor skills, teamwork, and decision-making, preparing students to respond competently in real-life neonatal emergencies. Incorporating simulation into nursing curricula can strengthen clinical readiness and improve patient safety outcomes.