Effectiveness of Simulation-Based Interventions in Improving Clinical Competencies of Pediatric Oncology Nursing: A Systematic Review


Savaş E. H., AKDENİZ KUDUBEŞ A., Semerci R., Erkul M., Özkan S., Arslan F. T.

Seminars in Oncology Nursing, cilt.41, sa.6, 2025 (SCI-Expanded, SSCI, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Derleme
  • Cilt numarası: 41 Sayı: 6
  • Basım Tarihi: 2025
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1016/j.soncn.2025.152052
  • Dergi Adı: Seminars in Oncology Nursing
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, CINAHL, MEDLINE
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: Competency, Nursing, Nursing practice, Pediatric oncology, Simulation
  • Bilecik Şeyh Edebali Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Background: Pediatric oncology nursing involves complex clinical and emotional care, yet many nurses feel unprepared for its demands. Simulation-based education offers experiential training to enhance clinical skills and emotional readiness. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of simulation-based educational interventions in enhancing the clinical competencies of pediatric oncology nurses. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in six databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Scopus. The inclusion criteria comprised empirical studies involving simulation-based training targeting pediatric oncology care competencies. The study follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Methodological quality was assessed using the Standardized Quality Assessment Criteria. Results: Eight studies published between 2007 and 2024 were included in the review. Simulation-based interventions improved nurses’ confidence, self-efficacy, communication, and adherence to chemotherapy safety protocols. High-fidelity simulations were the most frequently used method. Hybrid simulations incorporating storytelling and video feedback promoted team-based learning and empathy. Most studies demonstrated moderate to high methodological quality. Conclusion: Simulation-based education enhances clinical competencies in pediatric oncology nursing, particularly in preparing nurses for oncologic emergencies, procedural pain, and end-of-life care. Despite promising results, methodological heterogeneity and the predominance of short-term outcome evaluations limit the generalizability of findings. Standardized simulation frameworks and long-term assessments are recommended to strengthen evidence-based nursing education. Implication to practice: Simulation-based education enhances core competencies in pediatric oncology nursing and should be integrated into education. Standardized frameworks and longitudinal evaluations can strengthen its evidence-based practice.