Evaluating Clinical Skill Competence and Professional Behaviors in Nursing Students Following Simulation Training at the University of Tabuk.

Introduction: Simulation training has become an integral component of nursing education, offering students opportunities to develop and refine their clinical skills in a controlled and safe environment.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical skill competence and professional behaviors of undergraduate nursing students following simulation training.

Design: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed for this study.

Setting: The study was conducted in the simulation center at the University of Tabuk using the Clinical Competency Questionnaire (CCQ), with data collected between January 1, 2023 and February 28, 2023. Participants were enrolled using a convenience sampling method, including nursing students in the 3rd and 4th years who trained in the simulation center and agreed to participate.

Results: The study results indicate that a majority of students demonstrated strong theoretical knowledge and practical competence in performing sterile techniques and administering oral medications with minimal or no supervision, with percentages of 74.7% and 73.3%, respectively. A significant proportion of students reported uncertainty or lack of skill in performing shift reports using SBAR (38.4%) and assessing gastrostomy tube placement (32.9%). Students exhibited satisfactory knowledge and competence in maintaining appropriate appearance, attire, and conduct (71.2%), understanding, and supporting group goals (71.2%), and comprehending patients' rights (69.9%).

Conclusion: The findings suggest that nursing students attain a relatively high level of clinical competence and self-confidence after simulation training. This study recommends incorporating simulation training in nursing education, which enhances professional behaviors like appearance, group goals, and patient rights, but requires improvement in constructive criticism, problem prevention, and cultural competence.