Advancing nursing education through wearable electronic devices: A scoping review

Aim

To examine the incorporation of wearable electronic devices in the education of undergraduate nursing students.

Background

The advancement of technology has influenced nursing education and will continue to do so in the future. Wearable technologies are electronic devices that can be worn as an accessory and expand the possibilities in nursing education with increased engagement in the learning process.

Design

A scoping review was conducted following JBI and reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines.

Methods

The search was performed on August 25th, 2023, in the databases: MEDLINE via PubMed, ISI Web of Science, ERIC, EBSCOhost CINAHL, EBSCOhost Academic Search Premier, EBSCOhost Health Source Nursing, EMBASE, Scopus, BVShost LILACS and ProQuest. Literature that examined the application of wearable electronic devices in the education of undergraduate nursing students was included.

Results

This scoping review study included a total of 21 records published between 2014 and 2023. The analysis showed that smart glasses are the most common wearable electronic device used in nursing education, followed by smartwatches. The devices provide an opportunity for competencies development, especially when applied in the simulation environment, such as physical examination and medication administration. Wearable technologies are potentially useful and feasible as learning tools in nursing education, increasing nursing students’ motivation, confidence and satisfaction.

Conclusions

In the technological revolution, educators must consider the potential of innovative teaching strategies, such as wearable electronic devices, to advance nursing education. Wearables can contribute to developing competencies required for the professionalism of undergraduate nursing students.